WRPS enforcing safe celebrations for St. Patrick’s Day
Posted Mar 16, 2025 11:53:37 AM.
Last Updated Mar 16, 2025 11:53:41 AM.
Waterloo Regional Police is reminding the public to celebrate safely and responsibly this St. Patrick’s Day weekend.
The force put out a release on X Saturday afternoon, telling people to avoid the area of Marshall Street and Regina Street North due to a high volume of individuals in the area.
“Members of the WRPS Public Order Unit are currently in the area assisting in the moving of individuals,” the post reads. “WRPS is reminding the public that anyone committing illegal activities may be fined or charged.”
A spokesperson for WRPS said police are continuing to monitor the situation on Sunday.
The reminder comes after an an Injunction Order was granted by the Ontario Superior Court of Justice, which runs from Friday, March 14 at midnight to March 17 at 11:59 p.m. when the holiday ends.
“It allows us to prevent crowds before they gather,” said Deputy Chief with WRPS, Jen Davis. “What would happen is, as people are starting to gather, we can actually educate them on the fact that the injunction is now in place, let them know that there’s an increased jeopardy for themselves with respect to the injunction.”
It means anyone caught taking part in rowdy, unsanctioned celebrations could be arrested, detained, or charged with breach of a court order. “The Charter does not give any person the legal right to unlawfully trample on the legal rights of others, to threaten public safety, or to disregard lawful municipal enactments: Ottawa, at para. 49,” the injunctions reads.
It’s purpose is to discourage un-lawful behaviour to minimize the need for arrests.
The injunction is in place for the University District, as Laurier and Waterloo Universities are both known for their March 17 celebrations. But it also includes surrounding neighbourhoods.
A large amount of fencing has been put in place along Ezra Street and the surrounding area.
Police are encouraging anyone planning to celebrate to avoid large communal gatherings and instead do so in small gatherings at licensed establishments or at home.
