Lord Mayor Robert Doyle’s message to homeless protesters at City Square

Lord Mayor Robert Doyle says he’s confident there won’t be a repeat of the Occupy Melbourne incident at City Square, telling 3AW homeless protesters won’t be removed by force.

The group of protesters, who set up camp a week ago, have said they’re not going anywhere, despite being offered permanent accommodation and health services.

Councillor Doyle told Neil Mitchell police had met with council but there was unlikely to be a repeat of the 2012 eviction when 43 people were injured and 95 people detained.

‘It’s a different situation,’ he said on 3AW Mornings.

‘There are vulnerable people there.

‘I’d rather help those people who need a home, get into a home.’

Click PLAY below to watch Robert Doyle in the 3AW studio