Patrick Brown responds to video alleging his violation against Brampton’s COVID-19 bylaw
Published August 11, 2020 at 7:25 pm
This past weekend, a video report posted to Twitter by Rebel News alleged that Mayor Patrick Brown violated Brampton’s COVID-19 bylaw at an arena while visiting friends.
This past weekend, a video report posted to Twitter by Rebel News alleged that Mayor Patrick Brown violated Brampton’s COVID-19 bylaw at an arena while visiting friends.
An 18-minute-long YouTube video shot by David Menzies, a Rebel News reporter, which has been circulating online, showcases Brown at Earnscliffe Recreation Centre.
In the video, Brown is approached by Menzies and is asked if he’s at the rink to play hockey to which Brown responds, he’s just there to “check out” the facility.
The mayor is then questioned in the video for not wearing a mask inside the building.
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Brown responded to the video report in a series of tweets posted on August 8.
“I was made aware of some fake news from the discredited Rebel media. They pretended to be from Maple Leafs TV wanting to interview the Mayor,” said Brown on Twitter.
“I walked away when I realized it was Rebel Media. I don’t do media interviews with an entity that has a track record on inciting hate.”
Brown’s tweets confirmed that his friends do in fact play hockey and stated that when time allows, he will once again play hockey regularly, too.
“I love the sport. Brampton has been renting ice in our facilities since June 24 when our City entered Stage 2. We are now in Stage 3 that even permits full shinny games,” stated Brown on Twitter.
Brampton council officially approved a mandatory mask bylaw last month, making masks and face-coverings mandatory in all indoor public spaces, including arenas and stadiums.
While Patrick Brown was seen in the video without wearing a mask inside the stadium, JP Maurice, Manager of Enforcement and Bylaw Services confirmed that no violation occurred.
“Enforcement and By-Law Services reviewed the information and evidence gathered in connection with the incident and determined that no violation under the Mandatory Face Coverings By-Law had occurred. As a result, no charges were laid,” said Maurice.
“For the purposes of this By-law, ‘Public Establishment’ means all or any portion of a building or place in the City that is located indoors; and where the public is invited or permitted access whether or not a fee is charged or a membership is required for entry.”
Gary Collins, Director of Communications, Office of Mayor Patrick Brown added, “I can tell you that City of Brampton Recreation Centres and indoor facilities are not open for walk-in public use for the safety community and to prevent the spread of COVID-19.”
“Arenas are open for use for figure skating and ice hockey training/modified gameplay. Sports fields are open for use for training/modified gameplay. Note that rental permits are required.”
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