Much has been made in recent months over Vancouver’s 2010 Winter Olympic Games bylaw changes and the assumption that they somehow infringe on the fundamental human rights and freedoms that all Canadians enjoy.
On the contrary, a workable and equitable balance between safety and expression is not only possible, but the best option to an enjoyable and safe Games for all.
Vanoc’s Integrated Security Unit, headed by RCMP deputy commissioner Bud Mercer, has been developing its plans in consultation with a number of Metro Vancouver communities, and meeting with an arms-length review panel the BCCLA helped to create.
Furthermore, protests and opportunities for free speech are limitless around the city with the exception of the Olympic venues. As hosts, we must ensure that all official Olympic competition sites are kept safe through searches of bags that might contain weapons, alcohol or other questionable items.
That being said, I have always had a strong commitment to freedom of expression and the adherence to the rights guaranteed to all through the Canadian Charter of Rights and Freedoms. It is for this reason alone that I am not prepared to every trample on these principles – before, during or after the games.
The reality of the bylaws is that most have little to do with security. City Council has implemented changes that create easier access for taxis to transport people, extend patio hours from 11pm to 1am, and provide temporary noise/garbage/advertising exemptions to accommodate the tens of thousands of visitors our city will welcome.
The Olympics Games are a global showcase for Vancouver, and street performers, clean streets, easy access for tourists and ample and prominent areas for free speech will be the image that is left with an audience of billions.
The perils of doing anything but ensuring the utmost in safety, however, are not the kind of risk that I and Council is willing to take.