Greenpeace activists caused a commotion yesterday morning as protesters rappelled down the Calgary Tower and draped a large poster over the building protesting the oilsands.
The surrounding areas were closed to traffic and all non-staff people in the Calgary Tower were evacuated as the Calgary police tactical team and Calgary fire high-angle rescue team responded to the incident around 10 a.m.
“The major concern for us is safety and we had to close the roads because of the risk of
debris falling. There will be criminal charges laid, which will be determined,” Insp. Chris Butler said on scene. Eight people were later arrested.
Nearby construction was halted during the two-hour demonstration, and workers, including Terry Pillipow, were irritated.
“I understand they want to get their point across but this just costs taxpayers’ money,” he said.
