(Halifax) Nova Scotia Premier Tim Houston asked citizens to observe a moment of silence, Tuesday at noon and then Wednesday, to remember the 22 people who were killed three years ago in of the worst mass murder in Canadian history.
Mr. Houston released a statement saying the impact of the tragedy in northern and central Nova Scotia on April 18-19, 2020 is still being felt.
“We must always remember and honor the lives of victims and survivors,” Mr. Houston said in the statement. We are inspired by the courage and strength shown by families, survivors and communities every day. »
Flags at the Legislative Assembly and on all provincial government buildings have been at half-mast since sunrise Tuesday morning and will remain so until sunset Wednesday. Premier Houston also encouraged all citizens, businesses and community organizations that display flags to also fly them at half-mast during this time.
Prime Minister Justin Trudeau also released a statement, saying he was inspired by “the strength and resilience shown by families, survivors and all Nova Scotians.”
“On this sad day, we remember the people we have lost, and their memory lives on in our hearts,” writes Mr. Trudeau. Today, Canada remembers the 22 people, including a pregnant woman, whose lives came to an abrupt end on what is one of the darkest days in Canadian history. We will never forget them. »
Mr. Trudeau describes the killing as a “senseless tragedy” that caused heartbreaking pain, trauma and bereavement that “will never entirely fade away.”
“In the wake of this attack, Canadians across the country have come together in grief and solidarity. »
Last month, a public inquiry released its 3,000-page final report that exposed a litany of errors made by the Royal Canadian Mounted Police (RCMP) during its response over the weekend. The report recommended in particular that Ottawa rethink the central role of the RCMP in maintaining order.
The inquest heard that the killer was disguised as an RCMP officer and driving a replica federal police cruiser when he shot and killed 13 people in Portapique on the evening of April 18. The following morning, he killed nine other people before being shot by two RCMP officers about 100 kilometers south of Portapique.
Prime Minister Trudeau pledged Tuesday to work closely with the Nova Scotia government and affected communities to ensure this kind of tragedy never happens again.
“The Government of Canada has already taken action to keep Canadians safe in their communities, and we have invested in improving mental health supports,” he said, quoting the Space Portal. Wellness Canada” and the “Wellness” app, which provide access to assistance at any time.
