PRIME Minister Justin Trudeau has issued the following statement on Christmas:

“Merry Christmas, Canada! ’Tis the season to gather with friends and family, to share moments and meals with our loved ones, and to give thanks for the blessings in our lives.

“For Christians, it’s also a time to celebrate the birth of Christ and the values he embodied – values like compassion, kindness, and hope. And while the story of Christ is being celebrated by Christians tonight, these values are universal. The holiday season is an opportunity for us all to bring comfort, joy, and light to those who need it most. So, let’s love our neighbours as we love ourselves, and find strength in our differences. Let’s give back and extend a helping hand to those who’ve fallen on hard times. And let’s share the warmth of the season with those who are spending the holidays alone this year. That is not just the true spirit of Christmas – it is also the true spirit of Canada.

“Whether you’re continuing family traditions passed on from one generation to the next or embarking on new ones, whether you’re hosting a big family gathering or celebrating with a few close friends, I hope your holidays are filled with good cheer, great company, and hope for the year ahead.

“To our brave members of the Canadian Armed Forces, the first responders who work around-the-clock to keep us safe, and the volunteers who give up their time to make someone else’s Christmas merry and bright: Thank you. You embody the eternal message and timeless truth that it is more blessed to give than to receive.

“Once again, from my family to yours, merry Christmas. Let’s carry the spirit of the holidays into the new year, and let’s find new ways to make our communities, our country, and our world a brighter place, for everyone, in 2024.”

PREMIER David Eby issued the following statement:

“Christmas is a treasured time for families in B.C. and around the world, including mine.

“It’s a time to connect with family, friends and neighbours. A time to enjoy fun traditions like going to community celebrations, decorating the tree and exchanging presents. And a time to give back to our communities.

“Tonight, my family and I will put out homemade cookies for Santa and a carrot for Rudolph, and eagerly await the magic of Christmas morning.

“Tomorrow, Christians will celebrate the birth of Jesus Christ, while people of various faiths and backgrounds will celebrate the universal message of Christmas: peace, love, joy and hope.

“It has been a challenging year for many people in B.C. and around the world. This holiday season, I have been reminded that when times are tough, British Columbians step up to support each other.

“Kids and adults alike have donated to toy drives, Christmas hampers and food banks. Businesses and community organizations have put on free festive events that are open to all. Groups of friends and co-workers have sponsored and served meals at community kitchens. School choirs have sung Christmas carols at care homes. And many families are opening their homes to people who would have otherwise been alone on Christmas.

“These acts of kindness, generosity and togetherness are, for me, what Christmas and British Columbia are all about.

“From my family to yours, merry Christmas and happy new year!”

CONSERVATIVE Leader Pierre Poilievre released the following statement:

“Christmas time has come once again, filling homes with warmth and cheer across the country. Students are making the trek home for the holidays, children are putting out milk and cookies for Santa Claus, and families from all walks of life are coming together to celebrate traditions with their loved ones.

“Christmas is always a time of generosity and optimism, as Canadians lend a helping hand to the less fortunate and give thanks for the blessings we have received.

“For Christians, the Advent season is a time of profound hope as people come together to celebrate the birth of the Saviour, Jesus Christ, and take solace in the Christmas message of comfort and joy.

“Despite the hardships our country faces, the spirit of the holidays continually reminds each of us of the incredible gift it is to live in the greatest country in the world. On behalf of Canada’s common sense Conservatives, allow me to wish all Canadians a very Merry Christmas. Regardless of your faith or how you celebrate, may you find peace and rest this holiday season.

“From my family to yours, Merry Christmas.”

FEDERAL NDP Leader Jagmeet Singh issued the following statement:

“Merry Christmas!

“Today marks a time for Christians around the world to celebrate the life and teachings of Jesus Christ – and his message of compassion, courage and empathy.

“It’s a time to gather with our loved ones, eat good food and spend quality time together before the New Year.

“The holiday season is also a time to reflect on what others are going through as we embrace generosity and empathy. For so many Canadians, this year has been extremely difficult, whether finding an affordable place to call home for your family or choosing between filling your fridge or filling your prescription – too many Canadians are faced with big problems and need solutions now.

“More than ever, we need to have the courage to deal with the problems Canadians face with the urgency they require. This holiday season, I encourage us to re-commit ourselves to building a more just and equal world where we all rise together.

“From my family, New Democrats, and myself, I wish everyone a happy holiday filled with love and happiness. Merry Christmas, everyone.”