The Mayor of Orillia is furious over an event planned for the waters off Chief Island.
It is an area considered sacred territory by the community, where an upcoming Facebook event called “Boats and Ropes” is reportedly being held this weekend.
Mayor Steve Clarke wrote on Twitter yesterday “This area has worked hard to keep our community safe. And now, an event called Boats & Ropes wants to jeopardize this. This is irresponsible, reckless, as well as disrespectful to our friends in Rama. IS A PARTY REALLY WORTH THE RISK?”
He added, “Is a party really worth putting our communities at risk? This event during COVID-19 is already consuming emergency service time + resources! What is the event’s Safety Plan and insurance coverage???”
The Chippewas of Rama First Nation leadership has also expressed concerns about the event, demanding it be cancelled.
Here’s a link to the proposed event.
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This area has worked hard to keep our community safe. And now, an event called Boats & Ropes wants to jeopardize this. This is irresponsible, reckless, as well as disrespectful to our friends in Rama. IS A PARTY REALLY WORTH THE RISK? @cityoforillia @OPP @OrilliaFire— Steve Clarke (@Clarke4Orillia) August 5, 2020