McGill’s downtown Montreal campus partially open, encampment cleanup continues
Posted July 11, 2024 9:35 am.
Last Updated July 11, 2024 3:33 pm.
McGill University’s downtown campus was partially open on Thursday after the pro-Palestinian encampment on the lower field was dismantled the day before.
Protesters were served a notice of eviction early Wednesday morning, just before 5 a.m.
The encampment was dismantled by McGill, alongside private security.
As a result of bad weather conditions, the campus cleanup will continue today, alongside the excavation and replacement of the contaminated soil.
“Due to the presence of human waste, a rat infestation, discarded syringes, a large amount of rotting food and garbage, and other potentially dangerous and unsanitary conditions within the site, it was necessary to use heavy machinery to remove parts of the camp for the safety of all involved,” reads a press release from McGill University.
Eighteen buildings remain closed until further notice.
McGill says the affected teachers must perform their duties at home, and students will have their classes offered online.
The protesters set up camp on April 27 at McGill and demanded that the university end its investments in companies that profit from Israel’s military operation in Gaza, and that management cut all ties between McGill and Israeli universities.
