The strike by employees continues at the medical centre located at 1415 1st Avenue West, in the City of Owen Sound. Between the dates of May 22, and August 30, 2018, the Owen Sound Police Service has responded to calls for service from picketers, employees and citizens. In all, there have been 48 (forty-eight) calls for service to the Owen Sound Police Service Communications Centre. Some of these calls have resulted in investigations into persons being struck at the picket line and mischief to vehicles. This has resulted in a significant draw on police resources and delays in responding to other calls for service. There are many questions that citizens ask regarding a lawful strike and what is acceptable during the labour dispute. Each police call is measured on its own merit and the following is provided to assist the public with information regarding a strike:

* Any person has the right to picket and that activity is legal and guaranteed by the Canadian Charter of Rights and Freedoms, Section 2.

* The time that it takes for a person to be able to enter an access point, like a driveway during a lawful strike, can be determined by many factors like the number of vehicles awaiting entry, picket-line protocol between a union and ownership/management or the weather.

* A person may not be physically assaulted. They may however, be subjected to comments or debate from picketers who wish to offer their view or position on the labour dispute.

* Motor vehicle drivers cannot drive through a picket line if it is not safe to do so. This is a requirement of law.

* Video or audio recording is permitted.

Our role is not to take sides in a lawful labour dispute. The role of the Owen Sound Police is to keep the peace and to encourage cooperation by all persons involved. We continue our commitment to public safety and law enforcement in our city. More information about the Labour Relations Act can be found at www.ontario.ca and www.labour.gov.on.ca

source: media release, OSPS