An Ontario university known for its off-campus St. Patrick's Day parties has decided to crack down on the celebrations this year.
Wilfrid Laurier University has become known for rowdy parties that fill Ezra Avenue in Waterloo. Although the events are technically off-campus, partiers often spill onto school property.
The parties have been so big that residents of Toronto are willing to travel more than 120 kilometres to attend. Last year, an estimated 7,000 party-goers filled the streets surrounding the school.
Two weeks ahead of the green-beer-fueled party, the university said celebrations will be different in 2016.
The university will be adding extra security guards to keep drunk partiers out of campus buildings, and is banning the sale of any St. Paddy's merchandise at its bookstore.
And, no St. Patrick's Day events are permitted on campus on March 17.
The university said its focus remains on academics, and that all classes, labs and tutorials will run as scheduled that day.
In previous years, the City of Waterloo had put up a licensed tent for the party, but this year officials decided against it.
Waterloo Regional Police said they will be monitoring the area closely to ensure that celebrations remain safe. They will also be watching for any illegal activity.
Last year, there were no major public safety incidents reported, but police said they shut down several parties and handed out hundreds of tickets.
With a report from CTV Toronto's Naomi Parness
