State of emergency means police can disperse crowds on Ezra

The State of Emergency may change the landscape of Ezra Avenue in Waterloo this St. Patrick's Day.

According to a release, put out by Wilfrid Laurier University on Wednesday morning, police can now disperse crowds of 50 or more people now.

“This is a significant change intended to protect the health of the community.” said the statement. “Do the right thing – stay away from large gatherings on or off campus.”

Police haven't said yet if they will use force to disperse crowds, if they need to.

“These are unprecedented times in our community, province, and country … I want to reassure you that we're doing everything in our lawful authority, to ensure that we provide the highest level of service.” said Waterloo Regional Police Chief Bryan Larkin, who addressed the media during a morning news conference.

“We're going to disperse crowds with poise, and professionalism.” added Larkin.

As of 12 p.m. Tuesday, all was still quiet on Ezra Ave.

570 NEWS reporter Ben Eppel says Ezra is a “ghost town”, with just one small group gathered on a front lawn.

with files from Blair Adams