RCMP responds to questions on G20 police rule

The following is an email response from RCMP spokesperson Sgt. Julie Gagnon to questions from CBC News about the force's knowledge of the Public Works Protection Act, a controversial regulation updated and passed by the Ontario government giving police heightened powers during this summer's G20 summit in Toronto:

Q: When was the RCMP made aware of the PWPA?

A: A few months before the actual event, the RCMP was made aware that TPS [Toronto Police Service] was considering using the PWPA however; the RCMP was not consulted on if TPS would use the PWPA during the Summits. It was not raised at any operational meetings and the RCMP did not approve the use of the PWPA, it was a TPS decision.

Q: How was the Act explained to the RCMP?

A: The Act was not explained to the RCMP. All we knew is that it was an old Act that would allow TPS special powers to protect property.

Q: Why did TPS need the PWP Act when the RCMP decided not to use it?

A: Each partner in the ISU [Integrated Security Unit, headed by the RCMP] was responsible for preparing their personnel and operations to meet their obligations during the Summits. Please contact TPS for their decision on using the PWP Act. The RCMP was confident that our planning, resources and available lawful authorities in place to protect the visiting International Protected Persons and the public during the Summits were sufficient.