The Chief Librarian says a majority of the board approved the booking after a 'difficult and emotional discussion'

The Vancouver Public Library issued a statement saying it has approved a room rental request from Gender Identity YVR

VANCOUVER (NEWS 1130) — Controversial writer Meghan Murphy — who’s been the subject of protests because of her views on transgender people — will be speaking in Vancouver in March.

The Vancouver Public Library issued a statement Monday saying it has approved a room rental request from Gender Identity YVR, despite calls for it to be cancelled.

“Many called on the Library Board to reject the rental request due to the opinions expressed by the room rental applicant and some of its speakers, as a public body VPL is expected to act in accordance with the Canadian Charter of Rights and Freedoms, which includes the right to freedom of expression subject only to limits recognized at law,” the statement reads, adding the decision was made after receiving legal advice and advice from the Vancouver Police Department and determining the presentation would likely not breach the BC Human Rights Code or Criminal Code

The Chief Librarian says a majority of the board voted to approve the booking after a “difficult and emotional discussion,” stressing that allowing the room rental “does not mean that the Board endorses or agrees with the positions of the group or individuals using our space.”

A decision about Library Square Conference Centre's March 21 room rental request by GIDYVR has been made. Read the statement on our website: https://t.co/WONaIYzuBT — Vancouver Public Library (@VPL) January 27, 2020

“We will now work to prepare for this event and ensure that it occurs with everyone’s safety in mind,” the statement continues, saying the event will happen after the library is closed to the public

A similar event in January 2019 prompted a protest. The library has since revised its and booking policy.

In July, The Vancouver Public Library was banned from marching in the annual Pride parade because of their decision to allow the event to proceed.