I am honoured to be here on behalf of Anne McLellan, the Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Public Safety and Emergency Preparedness.
Two weeks ago today, we were shocked by the heinous acts of terror that take took place in London. The events of today have served as a morbid reminder. Our thoughts and prayers are with the victims and their families.
We as Canadians are united in denouncing these terrible crimes and we stand with the British people, and all people around the world in condemning such acts of violence and barbarism.
One way of demonstrating our solidarity is through vigils such as these, and through similar gatherings that allow communities to work collectively to both ensure our safety and security, and promote the Canadian values of tolerance, compassion and understanding.
A further example of this constructive engagement is the Government's new Cross Cultural Roundtable, which encourages dialogue between those who make and implement Canada's national security policies, and Canadians who are particularly concerned with their consequences.
I know that Salma Siddiqui, a member of the Roundtable has been involved in organizing this event and I thank her for her efforts.
I would also like to thank my colleague the Honourable Jean Augustine for organizing
this vigil, my Honourable colleagues in attendance, and representatives from
the department of Public Safety and Emergency Preparedness, CSIS, the RCMP and
CBSA for being here tonight.
As it has been expressed recently by world and community leaders, including
prominent Muslim leaders, terrorism is not about certain communities, it is
about the choices of individuals, and the propagators of the perverted ideologies
that influence them. The Government of Canada is committed to the elimination
of hatred and violence in all its forms. All Canadians must continue to be extremely
vigilant, if we are to help prevent future acts of terrorism.
Thank you.