Following the removal of an encampment earlier this week on Northumberland County property, a new encampment has been set up in Cobourg.
This encampment is at the former Brookside Youth Detention Centre, which is provincial property, and is the third such an encampment. The first was set up on Cobourg’s west beach.
Northumberland-Peterborough South MPP David Piccini said in a statement he’s aware of the trespassing taking place and believes vulnerable community members are getting manipulated and strategically-moved around in Cobourg.
“It’s not a coincidence this first happened on Cobourg, then county, and now provincial property,” Piccini said.
“There are dedicated outreach workers and collaborative community partners doing very hard work, trying to assist,” he added. “Shelter capacity and motel program space is available with wrap around supports for those in need. I encourage all to access these services.”
The MPP also stated “our community is tired of the same people usurping everyone’s collective time; flagrantly dismissing bylaws; and, normalizing drug use. This makes a mockery of the hard work of so many dedicated social service and health care staff that are helping the vulnerable in our community.”
Officials from nearby C.R. Gummow Public School and Cobourg Collegiate Institute have sent identical messages to parents stating they are aware of the situation and have been in contact with municipal partners at the Town of Cobourg.
“We will continue to monitor this situation going forward and provide any further information and updates in the coming days,” the statement includes.
Northumberland897 has also requested comments from Northumberland County, the Town of Cobourg and Cobourg Police Service officials.
