Toronto Police Chief Mark Saunders says police are working with organizers to ensure smooth security at this year’s Caribbean Carnival Grand Parade, despite a more interactive approach by organizers.
The parade is set to take place this Saturday along Lake Shore Boulevard and Exhibition Place. Organizers have said that while barriers will be in place, there will be less fencing around the parade route than in previous years so that spectators can get closer to the festivities.
Speaking with CP24 on “The Chief” Tuesday, Saunders said that Toronto police are working closely with organizers to make sure that adequate security measures are in place.
“Each and every year, we work with their executive, we work with their people to execute a security plan. So there is a harmonious relationship between us,” Saunders said. “As long as there’s good strong communication, it minimizes any of the security concerns that are put forward.”
Saunders praised the parade as a vibrant and powerful event and said the vast majority of people who attend do so to have a good time.
“There’s nothing that would cause us to believe that it is a security event at this point in time,” Saunders said. “So it’s a festival, it’s a fun time. And we will have the right assets in the right places. We also have the ability to transition into something else if we have to, just like we do with every other event that we have.
“I’m not concerned about the safety and security – I hope everybody comes to it. It is a really good time by and large each and every year.”
During the hour-long program, the chief also reiterated that ongoing public consultations are vital as police seek community input on their efforts to modernize.
Saunders also touched on gun violence, enforcement around existing marijuana laws and whether he’d be open to equipping officers with more Tasers.
To see clips of the full program, click here.
