Edmonton police commission to prohibit public speakers from meetings for rest of the year
The Edmonton Police Commission has temporarily banned public speakers from its meetings due to safety concerns and personal attacks against staff and commissioners. The commission will continue to accept written submissions while reviewing the policy.
Why it matters
The decision highlights the growing tension between public oversight bodies and community activists regarding decorum and safety in local governance.
In a news release Wednesday , the police oversight body said conversations around the EPC have “moved far beyond legitimate criticism of the board, police governance or oversight.”
The EPC said the decision is temporary, and noted members of the public can still watch the meetings online. If citizens want to offer input, the commission said it will still take written submissions.
The EPC said it will review the decision to suspend public speakers before next year.
Ben Henderson, chair of the commission, told CBC News the decision was made to prioritize the safety of commission members, staff and the rest of the public. He said the behaviour of some speakers at meetings over the last few months led to the decision.
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