Radicalized terrorists are a concern around the world. The tragic events of October 20th and 22nd, the murders of two of our own fine Canadian sons, make it obvious that Canada is not immune from terrorism.

Following the attacks at the National War Memorial and on Parliament Hill, I want to thank everyone for their outpouring of good wishes and prayers for me and all parliamentarians – and especially for our Prime Minister.  As he recently stated in Parliament:  “ … we see across the world, increasing places where the planet is descending into savagery …”

Indeed, I have not seen such violence in my generation. I was very near to the shooting that took place on Parliament Hill. I will never forget the cacophony of shots that rang out as the perpetrator ran past the unlocked doors of our caucus room.

An M.P.’s job can be demanding and stressful, but these events went beyond anything I ever could have imagined in my over twenty years on Parliament Hill. We were locked down for nearly twelve hours. Not knowing what else may be occurring outside our room made for many anxious moments.

My deepest sympathies and prayers go out to the families and friends of our fallen soldiers:
WO Patrice Vincent and Cpl. Nathan Cirillo.  I encourage every Canadian to support our military and police forces that so faithfully and constantly provide for our security and safety both here at home and abroad.

In his address to the House of Commons on the emotional morning after the shootings, Prime Minister Stephen Harper left us parliamentarians with this reassuring message:

“Mr. Speaker, in our system, in our country, we are opponents but we are never enemies. We are Canadians, one and all. We may be across the aisle from one another, but when faced with attacks on the country we all love and the things we all stand for, I know we will always stand together.”

I share those sentiments and hope that all Canadians, moving forward, will apply these values of tolerance, understanding and mutual respect for one another.

Though the objective of terrorism is to instill fear and panic, to interrupt government and to force the adoption of their brutal values, ideology and way of life, our response needs to be a stronger commitment to the freedom and values that have made our country what it is. We cannot be intimidated. We must remain vigilant. And we must not back down – for the sake not only of our own generation – but of those to come.

Sergeant-at-Arms, Kevin Vickers, and the brave members of the security services on Parliament Hill, are true examples of outstanding courage and professionalism. To all of them, we owe our deepest gratitude.  

In the words of our national anthem:  God keep our land glorious and free.

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