PRIME Minister Carney on Monday in a statement on Tamil Genocide Remembrance Day said: “Today, we join Tamil communities in Canada and around the world in commemorating Tamil Genocide Remembrance Day.

“The Sri Lankan civil war claimed tens of thousands of civilian lives over more than a quarter century. We honour the memory of those who lost their lives and stand with the survivors, families, and communities who endured profound suffering.

“Canada is home to one of the largest Tamil diasporas in the world, including many who came here seeking refuge from violence and persecution. In 2022, Canada’s Parliament unanimously voted to recognise May 18 as Tamil Genocide Remembrance Day and recognise the atrocities committed against Tamils in Sri Lanka as genocide – reflecting an important step in acknowledging this painful history.

“Canada will continue to support international efforts to advance accountability, uphold human rights, and promote lasting peace for the people of the island.

“We reaffirm our commitment to human dignity and justice, and to ensuring that such grave violations of human rights are never ignored or forgotten.”

CONSERVATIVE Leader Pierre Poilievre said: “Seventeen years ago, the horrific massacre at Mullivaikkal brought the Sri Lankan Civil War to its tragic and bloody close.

“On Tamil Genocide Remembrance Day, we mourn the victims of this great crime of our era; honouring the survivors and repeating our calls for justice.

“Today as ever, Conservatives are proud of Prime Minister Stephen Harper’s principled boycott of the 2013 Commonwealth Heads of Government Meeting in Sri Lanka.

“We remain firm in our commitment that the Rajapaksa regime must face justice for their crimes, and that Canada cannot be a land of refuge for the perpetrators of genocide.

“As you mark this solemn date, His Majesty’s Loyal Opposition joins you in looking forward to a just and peaceful tomorrow.”