Doug Ford is asking beachgoers to kindly stop pooping into the sand at a popular Ontario summer destination.
Speaking to reporters during a Wednesday morning press conference, Ontario’s Premier was asked to weigh in on persistent social media rumours claiming visitors to Wasaga Beach are erecting tents, digging holes and defecating into the sand — a claim amplified by a local TikToker last month but derided as disinformation by town and provincial officials.
Maintaining the claims barely hold water, Ford said the province had recently given the Town of Wasaga Beach $1 million to build bathrooms along the world’s longest freshwater beach.
“I have no proof that people are pooping in the park per se, but it’s pretty bad if they are,” Ford said.
When asked about the town’s proposal to ban tents on the beach, Ford said banning tents in provincial parks “just doesn’t cut it.”
“I think people are respectful enough,” he said.
Last week, Wasaga Beach Mayor Brian Smith said town officials have never received any complaints about people defecating on the beach and he called on Queen’s Park to help clear the town’s name.
“If any evidence comes to light, I assure you that we will be quick to act,” Smith previously said in a statement.
As well, a spokesperson for Ontario’s Environment, Conservation and Parks Ministry told Global News there have been no such claims reported by either residents or park staff.
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On Wednesday, Ford echoed that sentiment.
“We have no proof if it, either,” he said.
“Folks, don’t be pooping on the beach — it’s as simple as that.”
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