Premier Doug Ford criticized an Ontario judge’s recent ruling that prevents the Region of Waterloo from clearing out a homeless encampment, calling it “absurd” on Friday.
Premier Doug Ford criticized an Ontario judge’s recent ruling that prevents the Region of Waterloo from clearing out a homeless encampment, calling it “absurd” on Friday.
Justice Michael R. Gibson ruled in a decision issued Thursday that a local bylaw aimed at allowing the region to remove around two dozen homeless individuals from a parking lot encampment infringes upon their rights as outlined in the Charter of Rights and Freedoms.
The encampment located in Kitchener, Ont., has existed since 2021 when many homeless individuals left shelters during the COVID-19 pandemic and established makeshift homes outdoors across various regions of the province.
Since 2022, the region has sought legal means to dismantle this encampment but has yet to succeed.
The region argues that they need access to the parking lot for construction on the Kitchener Central Transit Hub, which is expected to start later this year. This hub will offer bus and light rail service along with connections to GO Transit and Via Rail.
Ford stated that Gibson’s ruling was “the most ridiculous ruling I’ve ever seen,” arguing that it prioritizes the rights of a small number of people over those of millions who rely on public transit in the future.
“He comes out with this absurd idea that they’re gonna hold up transit, so for what, 30 people, they’re going to hold up millions and millions of riders, communities and everything,” Ford said during an unrelated press conference in Sault Ste. Marie.
“The judge is saying that we got to hold up projects and everything,” he continued. “I wish I could get that guy’s address; I’ll send 50 encampments into his backyard and see how he likes it.”
The judge deemed the bylaw unconstitutional and void.
“The encampment is currently the only place in the region where it is not illegal for homeless people to set up a tent or structure,” Gibson noted. “The region has clearly stated that if the encampment is cleared, it is not prepared to allow homeless people to shelter outdoors anywhere on region property.”
This stance taken by the region was vital in his conclusion, he indicated.
“No one should romanticize or be starry-eyed about the encampment,” wrote Gibson. “It is a miserable and desperate place. But it represents the only remaining safety valve for the region’s homeless as a refuge of last resort.”
To comply with the Charter, he stated that the region “would need to include an alternative lawful encampment site of last resort or a tenting protocol that facilitates access to essential services and health care comparable to what exists at current encampments.”
He highlighted London and Thunder Bay as other cities in Ontario having established lawful designated encampment areas.
If such measures are implemented in Kitchener, then officials could seek further court review or guidance.
The Region of Waterloo mentioned they are “reviewing” this decision and will soon determine their next course of action.
“We remain committed to providing outreach and supports to those experiencing homelessness across our area,” said regional officials in their statement.
Ashley Schuitema, an attorney representing residents at the encampment, expressed hope from Waterloo Region Community Legal Services: “We’re hopeful that Premier Ford will collaborate with regional leaders toward meaningful solutions for homelessness while respecting this court’s ruling.”
Encampments grew throughout Ontario during pandemic times as individuals opted for outdoor safety over crowded shelters.
The City of Toronto alongside its police force took down several notable encampments through operations resulting in violent arrests; they fenced off large sections of public parks leading to clashes between law enforcement officers and those experiencing homelessness along with their advocates.
This aftermath led various local governments including Waterloo Region itself toward distinct approaches regarding their own camps. The legal process initiated by them started back in 2022.
This report by The Canadian Press was first May 22, 2026.
Liam Casey, The Canadian Press
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