PRIME Minister Mark Carney issued the following statement on the National Day of Remembrance for Victims of Terrorism:
“Forty years ago, innocent civilians, including over 250 Canadians, were killed in the bombing of Air India Flight 182. This terrorist attack remains the deadliest attack in our country’s history – one we must never forget.
“As we mark the National Day of Remembrance for Victims of Terrorism, we remember the victims of the Air India bombing and all others who have lost their lives to terrorism.
“Canada will continue to work with our allies and partners, at home and around the world, to better detect, prevent, and respond to the threat of terrorism and violent extremism. We are also increasing funding for national security, defence, and law enforcement, and enhancing intelligence sharing with our allies.
“Canada’s new government unequivocally stands against terrorism, and we will deliver on our mandate of change to keep communities safe.”
PREMIER David Eby said: “Forty years ago today, 329 innocent people boarded Air India Flight 182 on Canadian soil but never made it to their final destination. They were entire families, businesspeople and students with their whole lives ahead of them. Tragically, they became victims of the deadliest terrorist attack in Canadian history when a bomb exploded onboard their flight. Two baggage handlers were also killed at Tokyo’s Narita Airport when a bomb intended for another Air India flight exploded.
“Today, we remember the 331 victims, including 280 Canadians, as well as everyone whose life was cut short or forever altered by a terrorist attack. We mourn with the loved ones left behind and condemn such senseless acts of violent extremism.
“Together, we must stand against the hate, intolerance and division that fuel terrorism. On National Day of Remembrance for Victims of Terrorism, we renew our resolve to create a safer society for everyone in honour of those we have lost.”
Photo: X
CONSERVATIVE Party Leader Pierre Poilievre said: “Since the first days of our country, far too many Canadians’ lives have been cut short, leaving their families and loved ones devastated by the evils of terrorism. Forty years ago, we witnessed the worst such attack in our nation’s history, as 329 passengers, including 280 fellow Canadians, were murdered aboard Air India Flight 182.
“Canadians mourn the loss of those whose lives have been taken by atrocious acts of terror and pray for the families and loved ones who have suffered so much. We remain steadfast in our commitment to confront those seeking to commit these vile acts and prevent them from taking place.
“Unfortunately, Canada has seen a startling rise in attempts by these vile monsters to uproot our lives after the horrific attacks of October 7th. They seek to weaponize the fear their terrorism imprints upon society to upend our way of life, bring us to our knees and scare us into submission to their demands.
“But we will not be intimidated. Let us rededicate ourselves to defend what they seek to destroy: freedom over fear and light over darkness. Common Sense Conservatives remain committed to this essential mission, and to ensure that Canada will never be a safe harbour for terrorism.”
READ ALSO:
RCMP: Honouring a tragic legacy – 40 years after Air India bombing
