Panda Game after parties better managed than last year but students’ behavior still disappointing says Mayor Watson
Posted Oct 3, 2022 07:00:00 PM.
Ottawa's mayor said while this year's Panda Game after parties were better managed, it doesn't excuse the disappointing behaviour of students after the game ended.
Mayor Jim Watson told The Sam Laprade Show on Oct. 3 while he was proud of the efforts of Ottawa police officers and by-law officials to not have a repeat of last year's Panda Game festivities, things did get out of hand in the Sandy Hill area after the game ended.
Watson said it will up to the next mayor and council to take the next steps and decide whether or not the Panda Game needs to go on a hiatus.
“The neighbours have put up with more than enough,” said Watson. “Both universities and the City will have to take a hard look if this can continue.”
Jan Finlay, a board member with Action Sandy Hill, told The Sam Laprade Show on Oct. 3 that students who didn't even live in the area came through her neighbourhood just looking for a party to attend.
“It was very disappointing to see such large crowds” she said. “There was unsafe, disruptive and illegal behaviour and it was really sad to see.”
Echoing Watson's comments, Finlay was glad to see an increase in police presence, but there is still a plan for community groups and partners to meet some time soon to discuss how to better manage the after parties and if the game needs to be cancelled altogether.
“None of us should feel unsafe in our own neighbourhood,” she said. “There's some students that are ruining the celebrations for everyone.”
Following multiple post-Panda game arrests, police are asking residents and other individuals to report any criminality experienced last night.
According to an Oct. 2 press release, the Ottawa Police Service (OPS) said they are in the community speaking to residents in the Sandy Hill and Old Ottawa South areas.
Police said seven arrests had been made, and multiple criminal investigations are underway, adding that officers are collecting online and drone footage from the unsanctioned gathering on Somerset Street East.
Over 80 provincial offence notices were issued for open alcohol.
Ottawa By-Law Services said in a tweet that 20 tickets were handed out, and over 100 parking tickets were issued as well.
Listen to the full interview with Jan Finlay below:
Listen to the full interview with Mayor Jim Watson below:
