Those attending planned anti-vax demonstrations outside hospitals today could end up arrested and charged if they disrupt hospital operations and public safety.

Toronto Police have posted a message on Twitter saying that while they respect the right to protest, demonstrations should not interfere with work being done inside the hospitals.

Statements have been released by both the Ontario Hospital Association and the Registered Nurses Association of Ontario, expressing disappointment and urging the demonstrators to move elsewhere.

While on Zoomer Radio’s Fight Back with Libby Znaimer last week, RNAO CEO Dr. Doris Grinspun said safe zones need to be implemented.

“Safe zones for healthcare facilities and schools, and pressing charges against violence, not against peaceful protest, against violence and hatred speech, any kind including spitting at healthcare workers,” Dr. Grinspun explained.

Safe zones would be areas where protests cannot happen so they don’t clog up access to hospitals and other essential health care institutions.

Earlier this month, protests outside downtown Toronto hospitals impeded patient access and allowed for the harassment of healthcare workers.

One ICU nurse says Monday’s planned protest at Toronto General may force some nurses who fear for their safety to not come to work.

Safe zones would be areas where protets cannot happen so they don’t clog up access to hospitals and other essential health care institutions.