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May Day rallies in the downtown core could disrupt traffic and affect the afternoon rush hour, Ottawa police warned Monday.

Police said disruptions could begin around 1:30 p.m. near the Human Rights Monument as May Day solidarity rallies in honour of International Workers’ Day are held by several disparate groups in Ottawa.

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The rallies, which are not permitted and are held by several organizations including the Communist Party of Canada and the Ottawa CUPE District Council, annually affect roads and traffic in and around Parliament Hill. However, because they are not permitted, police aren’t sure of the route the groups plan to take.

Public Safety Canada said it released a memo to federal government workers on Monday warning them of the possible disruption downtown caused by May Day marchers. It urged extra vigilance to ensure federal buildings remained secure.

Police warned disruptions could possibly stretch into the afternoon commute, and asked commuters to avoid the downtown core if possible in order to prevent further traffic delays.