Saskatoon Judge Considers Injunction to Protect Homeless Encampments

Justice Richard Danyliuk of the Court of King’s Bench is considering an interlocutory injunction to prevent the City of Saskatoon from dismantling homeless encampments in the city's west end, including a site in the Pleasant Hill neighbourhood. Lawyer Crystal Fafard filed the application on behalf of residents, arguing that removing the sites without available housing would cause irreparable harm and violate Section Seven of the Charter regarding the right to life, liberty, and security of the person.

The city, represented by lawyer Alan Rankine, opposes the injunction. City officials and the Saskatoon Fire Department cite significant public health and safety risks, including drug overdoses, human waste, and rotting food that have attracted rodents. The city also noted complaints from local businesses and an elementary school, arguing that the encampments put city-owned property at risk.

While the city previously attempted to clear two sites on 19th Street West, the operation was halted following protests from advocates. The city has since agreed to pause all cleanup efforts and will not take further action until Justice Danyliuk renders a decision or an emergency occurs. The provincial government, represented by the attorney general, also opposed the injunction, questioning Fafard's standing and the evidence provided.