Presentations, Introductions and Announcements

Councillor Thompson acknowledged that Black History Month has been celebrated by the City of Toronto since 1979. Councillor Thompson, during the morning session of the meeting, acknowledged and thanked the amazing team from Parks, Forestry and Recreation for the outstanding work they did for the Scotia Bank Hockey Day event in January: Howie Dayton, Kerri Zollen, Dexter Slater, Steve Jordan, Peter White, Edward Lewis and Mari Caravaggio. Councillor Fletcher, during the morning session of the meeting, advised Members of Council that during the month of February, staff from Parks, Forestry and Recreation have displayed fantastic posters at the skating rinks across the City to acknowledge Black History Month. Councillor Lai, during the afternoon session of the meeting, wished the Chinese, Korean, Vietnamese and other Asian communities in Toronto a very happy Lunar New Year of the Tiger. Councillor Lai commented that the Tiger is known as the king of all beasts and symbolizes bravery, energy, confidence and strength. Councillor Lai remarked that she hoped the Year of the Tiger would bring an end to the pandemic, that there would be prosperity for a speedy recovery and that there would be good health for all. February 3, 2022 Mayor Tory, during the morning session of the meeting, advised Members of Council that he had met that morning with the City Manager, senior City staff, the Police Chief, Toronto Police Service, senior Police Officers, the Fire Chief and General Manager - Emergency Management, Councillor Cressy and others to get an update from the Police regarding a possible Convoy of Freedom protest in Toronto this weekend. Mayor Tory remarked that Members and residents support the right of all Canadians to a peaceful and respectful protest. Mayor Tory noted that the Toronto Police Service is continuing to gather information about the possible protest and will have an update for residents and businesses on February 4, 2022. Mayor Tory also noted that the Police Chief will provide an update to all Members of Council. Mayor Tory advised that he supports the Toronto Police Service in taking necessary action to prepare for this possible protest and doing everything they can to protect the safety of Toronto residents and businesses as well as minimize any disruptions. Mayor Tory emphasized that any protest in the area of Queens Park absolutely cannot block access to the hospitals around the Legislature, and that people should not be blocked from receiving emergency care or any medical care. Mayor Tory also said that hospital workers must be able to go freely and safely to and from their respective work places.