In Montreal, the journalist Louis-Philippe Messier is mainly on the run, with his office in his backpack, looking for fascinating topics and people. He speaks to everyone and is interested in all areas of life in this city chronicle.
Art dealer Michael Mensi can “brag” that he is in one of the worst places for a dealer in the context of COP15: his 102-window gallery on Rue Viger sits next to the security fence, and he fears they will be destroyed by rioters .
“It’s been two years since the pandemic, and now COP15 is canceling my holiday season, which is a crucial time for my business,” Mr Mensi said angrily.
The retailer invited Le Journal to visit his 18-year-old gallery MX.
The second floor has an unobstructed view of the security fence and police operation on the other side.
A dozen agents surveyed the perimeter.
“We really faced them, as you can see, but from the wrong side of the wall, from the unprotected side! »
When I arrived, a representative of the building’s owner was speaking to Mr. Mensi.
She confirmed 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 Gallery MX would offer aspiring cinematographers a nice spot to survey the action expected at COP15.
Of snipers enthroned
“I live up in the tower of my gallery and about ten days ago I saw snipers (editor’s note: snipers) setting up their tripod rifles and taking up position on the roof of the palace [des congrès], certainly to consider how to position oneself if necessary. »
“When I saw these professional shooters, I understood that maybe this conference is not fun: they prepare for all scenarios. »
I counted the glass panes of Galerie MX facing the street. There are 102
“I’m calling my insurance to find out what happens when rioters smash windows and throw out artwork… and it’s not clear. »
“I estimated that putting up my 102 windows would cost $12,000 to $15,000. »
Investing to protect yourself is a challenge; There is no guarantee that a break will occur.
Mr Mensi wrote to his City Council and the COP15 Chief of Operations.
Photo Louis Philippe Messier
The art dealer doesn’t know if his insurance would cover damage or theft of works during the riots.
Effects on the neighbors of the palace
“We are evaluating the possibility of implementing a program to mitigate the negative financial impact on businesses located near the Palais des Congrès. As soon as I have more details, I will let you know,” replied Iwan Chan from the COP15 Administrative Office.
Mr. Mensi smiled wryly as he read this answer to me.
“They haven’t given a second thought to the ramifications for the neighborhood and when it’s over we’ll be told to take care of our problems. »
Do you have any information about this story that you would like to share with us?
Do you have a scoop that might be of interest to our readers?