OTTAWA, March 15, 2019 /CNW/ - Today, the Honourable Ralph Goodale, Canada's Minister of Public Safety and Emergency Preparedness, made the following statement on the terrorist attack in two mosques in Christchurch, New Zealand:

Hatred, violence, and right-wing extremism have no place in any society. Everyone has the right to be free to practice their faith and culture without fear.

The Five Eyes security and intelligence partnership is an alliance between Australia, Canada, New Zealand, the United Kingdom and the United States. Our ally New Zealand endured a terrorist attack that constitutes the most deadly mass shooting in their nation's history.

Today I will be in touch with my counterpart, New Zealand's Minister of Justice Andrew Little, to offer Canada's support and solidarity. Any requested assistance that Canada can contribute to the Government of New Zealand and its people, will be provided.

I remain in constant contact with Canadian national security officials including the Commissioner of the RCMP and the Director of the Canadian Security Intelligence Service.

At this time, Canada's threat level remains unchanged at "medium", where it has stood since 2014.

Attacking innocent people during prayers is appalling. I condemn in the strongest terms possible the act of terrorism that took place yesterday. All Canadians join New Zealanders and Muslim communities around the world in grieving.

The Government of Canada is unwavering in its commitment to protect the safety and security of Canadians, and to defend this nation's values. Canada's national security, intelligence, and police agencies take all appropriate action to counter terrorist threats to Canada, its citizens, and our interests around the world.

Canada will continue to work with its Allies to fight the scourge of terrorism in all its forms.

SOURCE Public Safety and Emergency Preparedness Canada

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