Mr. Speaker, on behalf of the Conservative Party of Canada, I would like to express our heartfelt condolences and deepest sympathies to the families and friends of all those who have lost their lives in the senseless attack over the weekend in Nova Scotia.
My thoughts and prayers and those of the entire official opposition are with their families and loved ones.
These are just a few of the Canadians killed during this most atrocious shooting in Canadian history: Constable Heidi Stevenson, a 23-year veteran of the RCMP, a mother of two and a loving wife, killed in the line of duty; Aaron Tuck, Jolene Oliver and Emily Tuck, a family of three; Heather O'Brien, a licensed practical nurse; Kristen Beaton, a continuing care assistant; Lisa McCully, a teacher at Debert elementary school; Sean McLeod, a corrections officer at Springhill Institution; Alanna Jenkins, a corrections officer at the Nova Institution for Women; Tom Bagley, a neighbour who reportedly died trying to help.
My thoughts, my heart and my prayers are with the loved ones of those who lost their lives in this unspeakable attack.
I would also like to wish a speedy recovery to Constable Chad Morrison, who was injured.
What has unfolded is incomprehensible. Nova Scotians, and indeed all Canadians, have not only lost incredible members of their communities, but they have lost a sense of security.
In the face of this immoral and vicious crime, one question we ask ourselves is why. How could this have happened? Why did it happen?
This tragedy is a painful reminder of the risks that all of our first responders take to keep Canadians safe. As they put on their uniforms and brave the unknown, Canadians rest easy knowing that they are protected in their communities.
Every day, our brave law enforcement officers put their lives on the line, and their families bear the burden. I would like to take a moment to thank all of the first responders who are dealing with this difficult situation with professionalism, and my thoughts are with those who have lost colleagues.
I would like to thank them for putting their lives on the line in service for all of us.
All Nova Scotians reeling from this attack should know that our nation stands with them in this moment of darkness. Our hearts are with them, and we will be here to support them in the difficult days, weeks and months ahead. Even though we cannot gather in person during these difficult times, they should know that they are never alone.
It is a wonderful truth that Nova Scotians are great storytellers. I know that this will be not only a story of great loss, but a story of love and strength. Canadians are known for their resilience and for their love of country, family and community.
Let us rely on that community now and in the weeks ahead to celebrate the beautiful lives lost and give each other much-needed strength to carry on. Let us honour the memory of those lost by sharing their stories and remembering their names.