Prime Minister Trudeau responds to terrorist attack on Quebec City mosque

Prime Minister Justin Trudeau condemned Sunday night’s shooting at a mosque in Quebec City, calling the act a “heart-wrenching” display of “senseless violence.”

See also

• Terrorist attack at Quebec City mosque leaves 6 dead

He said the following in a statement:

“It was with tremendous shock, sadness and anger that I heard of this evening’s tragic and fatal shooting at the Centre culturel islamique de Québec located in the Ste-Foy neighbourhood of the city of Québec.

We condemn this terrorist attack on Muslims in a centre of worship and refuge.

On behalf of all Canadians, Sophie and I offer our deepest condolences to the family and friends of all those who have died, and we wish a speedy recovery to those who have been injured.

While authorities are still investigating and details continue to be confirmed, it is heart-wrenching to see such senseless violence. Diversity is our strength, and religious tolerance is a value that we, as Canadians, hold dear.

Muslim-Canadians are an important part of our national fabric, and these senseless acts have no place in our communities, cities and country. Canadian law enforcement agencies will protect the rights of all Canadians, and will make every effort to apprehend the perpetrators of this act and all acts of intolerance.

Tonight, we grieve with the people of Ste-Foy and all Canadians.”

Other leaders react

NDP leader Tom Mulcair also took to social media to express his horror at the news.

Horrified at the news of a shooting in a mosque tonight in Québec City. We stand with our Muslim neighbours against this act of hatred.

— Tom Mulcair (@ThomasMulcair) January 30, 2017

Quebec City’s mayor Philippe Couillard echoed the Prime Minister’s thoughts, saying Quebec categorically rejected “this barbaric violence.”

Le #Québec rejette catégoriquement cette violence barbare. Toute notre solidarité aux proches des victimes, des blessés et à leur famille.

— Philippe Couillard (@phcouillard) January 30, 2017

Canada’s Minister of Public Safety Ralph Goodale said his thoughts and prayers are with all those affected.

My thoughts and prayers are w/ the victims, their families & community in Ste-Foy tonight. GoC is closely monitoring the unfolding situation

— Ralph Goodale (@RalphGoodale) January 30, 2017

‘The whole city is with you’

Meanwhile, Quebec City Mayor Régis Labeaume issued a statement in French on Facebook, saying Quebec is in mourning tonight. Here is a translation:

“Violence and intolerance, towards anyone, whether groups or individuals, is simply unjustifiable and unacceptable. Above all, my thoughts are with the families of the victims and to everyone at the Sainte-Foy mosque. The whole city is with you and we will be by your side throughout this terrible ordeal, that is beyond reason. Let us remain united, as solidarity is the best response to this needless human tragedy. And let us have courage, for we will need it in the days to come.”