At least one unsanctioned overdose prevention site was shut down on Friday, March 31, 2023 in Cobourg.
The unsanctioned overdose prevention (OPS) tents have sprouted up on every Friday starting at 7 p.m. and ending at 10 p.m.
Last Friday, a tent was in Victoria Park and was said to be used as an educational tent, but organizers said that one person wanted to “use” the tent.
Nothing was done at that time, but Cobourg Police did speak to the people on site.
On Friday, March 31, a tent was set-up at the Rotary Harbourfront Rink/Park on Albert Street behind Victoria Hall.
When Today’s Northumberland arrived a few minutes after 7 p.m., by-law officers with the town of Cobourg were speaking with three people who were by the tent.
By-law Enforcement Manager Kevin Feagan told Today’s Northumberland the person in charge they were contravening two by-laws regarding tents and not to engage in a organized activity.
After a short discussion, the tent was taken down and the people left the area.
No further action was taken by by-law.
Last Friday there were reports of another tent being set-up and the one in Victoria Park was a possible decoy, but nothing was confirmed.