By Canadian Press

Camping event in Montreal goes ahead as Parks Canada, homeless advocates strike deal

Jul 23, 2022 | 5:33 PM

MONTREAL — A Montreal camping event that generated backlash from homeless advocates is going ahead after Parks Canada and its critics agreed to work together.

The urban camping event will take place tonight along the Lachine Canal in the heart of Montreal, with protesters’ tents pitched alongside those of paying customers.

The series of events, dubbed learn-to-camp, are described as an opportunity to learn basic camping skills for the price of over $100 per tent.

The events drew backlash from advocates who pointed out that homeless people who try to camp on public lands often see their tents dismantled by authorities.

Parks Canada spokesman Simon Saint-Germain said the federal agency wanted to work with community advocates to create dialogue and education around homelessness.

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A representative of the homeless advocates says Parks Canada agreed to provide water and bathroom access to protesters, and to allow them to hold an event this evening to raise awareness about what the most vulnerable Montrealers are facing. 

This report by The Canadian Press was first published July 23, 2022. 

The Canadian Press