Ford ups the ante

Ontario Place on the big screen

ABOVE THE FOLD

CIVIC CLASH — After mounting pressure from municipalities, and after being wishy-washy on the matter, DOUG FORD is taking a hard line on homeless encampments with sweeping legislation and a pledge to wield the notwithstanding clause if the courts wade in.

Nuclear option: The Premier says legislation is headed for the Clerk’s table next week that would give municipalities and police more power to deal with encampments, which have been popping up big time across the province. That includes “unequivocally” prohibiting the use of illegal drugs in public spaces, along with enhanced enforcement powers; stiffer penalties for repeat scofflaws; and more cash to build shelter capacity.

In his letter to mayors, Ford said he didn’t think it was necessary to use the notwithstanding clause yet as he’s confident the forthcoming bill is “entirely aligned with the Charter of Rights and Freedoms” — but he’s willing to use that nuclear option “should the courts interfere.”

It comes after a…