Massage parlour opponents speak out at Regina city hall

Proposed new rules forRegina's massage parlour industry arerubbing some people the wrong way.

At an executive committee meeting at Regina Wednesday, there werea number of speakers voicing opposition to proposed regulatorychanges on massage parlours, also known as body rub parlours.

Some are advocatingfor an outright ban on the businesses, saying the city should not condone illegal activity or the exploitation of women.

The city believes a totalban would push sex workers onto the streets and into more danger. It wants the businesses to belicensed and subject to inspections, with the police being involved.

Janette Rieger, who was one of the city residents speaking to members of city council, says banning body rub parlours may make it easier to arrest johns.

"They don't get arrested in the massage parlours because you don't see them," she said.

"On the streets you would see them. Of course, the city, the police would have to be very proactive in enforcing those laws, but it would be more obvious what the activity is."

Logan Rohatyn was one of the few of the delegations speaking in favour of regulation.

He saidhe too is against sexual exploitation and degradation of women. He saidhe has a friend who works in a massage parlourwho's scared of workingout on the street.

"This is one option where there might be hope for women to have a safer atmosphere to be able to work in," he said.

The city's executive committee decided to table the discussion to a special meeting.

Mayor Michael Fougere saidhe hopes council can look at the recommendations againlater this month.