Trudeau condemns protest at Mount Sinai hospital in Toronto, calls it 'reprehensible' – Toronto

Police say they are investigating “several incidents” after a demonstration outside Mount Sinai Hospital in Toronto that drew sharp criticism from both the prime minister and the prime minister.

Protesters marched in Toronto on Monday evening and at one point demonstrators were seen outside Mount Sinai Hospital.

Some even climbed the building and at least one was seen waving a Palestinian flag.

A spokesperson for the Toronto Police Service told Global News in an email that “hospital operations should not be disrupted.”

“The Toronto Police Service is investigating several incidents that occurred in front of Mount Sinai Hospital and along the demonstration route,” a spokesperson said.

“As we've said before, officers use their discretion during large crowds and even if it's not considered safe to make an arrest at the time, investigations will continue and charges may be filed at a later date.”

Toronto police will have an increased presence at the downtown hospital “to ensure the availability of essential hospital services and emergency routes,” the spokesperson added.

Anyone who witnessed Monday's incident or experienced harassment is asked to contact police.

Prime Minister Justin Trudeau responded to the demonstration in a post on X, calling it “reprehensible.”

“Hospitals are places of healing and care, not protests and intimidation,” Trudeau said.

“I strongly condemn this manifestation of anti-Semitism. In Toronto and across Canada, we stand together with the Jewish community against this hatred.”

In late 2021, amendments to the Criminal Code received royal assent, strengthening laws restricting protests in healthcare facilities.

Premier Doug Ford made the point when asked about the demonstration at a news conference Tuesday morning.

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“Guys, be polite. Use common sense,” Ford said.

“These hospitals exist to save lives.

“Don't break the law, because that's exactly what happened.”

Ford said it shouldn't happen at the hospital, despite some protests.

Toronto Mayor Olivia Chow also condemned the incident, calling it “unacceptable.”

“Targeting Jewish institutions is anti-Semitic and hate has no place in our city,” Chow said.

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