Injunction granted against protesters in LeMay Forest amid ongoing development

A Manitoba judge has granted an injunction against a group protesting the clearing of a Winnipeg forest to build a development.

The injunction was granted Monday, ordering protesters to leave an area of Lemay Forest, where tree cutting started last week.

“What prompted it was (a) complete lack of engagement on the other side of the defendants, who refused to resolve this matter peacefully,” said John Wintrup, a planner with Tochal Development Group. “So, then we went to civil courts to start resolving this matter when they decided to take these lands hostage and deny entry to the landowner.”

According to the injunction, protesters are ordered to not trespass on the area or impede access for workers or landowners. Police can arrest people who contravene the order.

A tree cut down in Lemay Forest is seen on Dec. 31, 2024. (Danton Unger/CTV News Winnipeg)

Development at Lemay Forest has been controversial.

In September, Tochal Development Group started cutting down trees until receiving a cease and desist from the city.

Tochal wants to build an assisted-living facility on the site, but the plan was defeated by the city, a decision that is now being appealed.

Residents and activists are concerned about the forest being destroyed to make room for the development.

Those currently protesting at the site said they have no plans to leave.

“We plan on keeping the sacred fire lit in this exact same spot. We don't plan on moving,” activist Morning Star Woman told CTV News Winnipeg.

“I'm not leaving, and my truck is not leaving until I have assurances that not one more tree will be cut until we can go through a full legal process,” said Louisa May, another demonstrator at the site.

Another hearing on the forest is scheduled for provincial court on Jan. 6.

The Winnipeg Police Service said in a statement it remains aware of the situation at the park.

“No threats/assaults have been reported and no arrests have been made. We will continue to monitor and engage with involved parties when the need arises,” a spokesperson said in a written statement.