Inside Montreal, journalist Louis-Philippe Messier travels mainly on the run, his office in his backpack, on the lookout for fascinating subjects and people. He speaks to everyone and is interested in all walks of life in this urban chronicle.
Art dealer Michael Mensi can “brag” that he is in one of the worst places for a trader in the context of COP15: his gallery with 102 windows on rue Viger is next to the security fence, and he fears let rioters smash them.
“There has been the pandemic for two years and now COP15 is canceling my holiday season, which is a crucial period for my business,” said Mr. Mensi, exasperated.
The merchant invited The newspaper to visit his gallery, Galerie MX, which has been established there for 18 years.
From the second floor, there is an unobstructed view of the security fence and the police deployment on the other side.
A dozen agents were inspecting the perimeter.
“We are really in their face, as you can see, but from the wrong side of the wall, from the unprotected side! »
When I arrived, a representative of the owner of the building was talking with Mr. Mensi.
She confirmed that her December rent was due as usual.
“It costs me $16,000 a month in rent and I have employees to pay. »
Photo Louis-Philippe Messier
The second floor of Galerie MX would make a nice perch for would-be cameramen to overlook the bustle expected at COP15.
Of the snipers perched
“I live higher up in the tower of my gallery and about ten days ago I saw snipers (Editor’s note: snipers) set up their tripod rifles and take up position on the roof of the Palace [des congrès], no doubt to assess how to position themselves if necessary. »
“Seeing these professional shooters, I understood that it might not be fun, this conference: they are preparing for all scenarios. »
I counted the glazed panes of Galerie MX which overlook the street. There are 102.
“I’m calling my insurance to find out what happens if rioters smash windows and trash art…and it’s not clear. »
“I estimated that putting up my 102 windows would cost $12,000 to $15,000. »
It is a challenge to invest in order to protect yourself; there is no guarantee that there will be breakage.
Mr. Mensi wrote to his city councilor and the COP15 operations manager.
Photo Louis-Philippe Messier
The art dealer does not know if his insurance would cover damage or theft of works during riots.
Impacts on the neighbors of the Palace
“We are studying the possibility of implementing a program to mitigate the negative financial impact on businesses near the Palais des Congrès. As soon as I have more details, I will let you know,” replied Iwan Chan, from the COP15 Management Office.
Mr. Mensi smiled ironically as he read this response to me.
“They didn’t think for a second about the consequences for the neighborhood and when it’s over, we’ll be told to fix our problems. »