(Halifax) Prime Minister Justin Trudeau on Monday paid tribute to the 22 victims of the worst mass shooting in modern Canadian history.
Posted at 9:16 p.m.
Two years ago, on the evening of April 18, 2020, a gunman began a murderous two-day run in the small community of Portapique, Nova Scotia. Before being shot by the police the next morning a hundred kilometers away, he had killed 22 people on his fatal road.
In a statement, Trudeau said Monday he joins the people of Nova Scotia and Canada in honoring the memory of those who lost their lives on those two days.
Nova Scotians were asked to observe a minute of silence Monday and Tuesday, while flags on government buildings were lowered until sunset Tuesday.
Federal New Democrat Leader Jagmeet Singh tweeted Monday that his thoughts are with the families and loved ones of the 22 victims of the shooting.
Mr. Trudeau also wanted to pay tribute to police officer Heidi Stevenson, of the Royal Canadian Mounted Police, “who gave her life protecting her community”, and he also salutes police officer Chad Morrison, “who was injured in coming face to face with the shooter.
“During one of the darkest days in Canadian history, these first responders and many others faced danger without hesitation in order to save lives and prevent further injuries,” wrote the Prime Minister.
“On behalf of the Government of Canada, I invite all Canadians to remember each and every person who lost their lives and to stand in solidarity with all those affected by this attack. »
Nova Scotia Premier Tim Houston has already announced that legislation will be introduced in the fall to designate April 18 and 19 as “provincial days of remembrance.”