OTTAWA, Jan. 30, 2017 /CNW/ - Today, the Honourable Ralph Goodale, Minister of Public Safety and Emergency Preparedness, released the following statement related to last night's shooting incident at the Islamic Cultural Centre of Quebec City.
"Our heartfelt sympathies are with the families and friends of those affected by this horrific attack in Quebec City. We are deeply saddened by the tragic loss of life and our thoughts go out to the community in this difficult time.
I am being briefed regularly on the situation and commend the efforts of the Quebec Integrated National Security Enforcement Team (INSET) for their swift response to this incident. This is the result of the close collaboration of the Quebec Police Management against Terrorism framework, which allows the relevant agencies to work very closely and effectively to keep the public safe.
At this time, the National Terrorism Threat Level for Canada remains at 'medium' where it has stood since 2014.
The Government of Canada monitors all potential threats and has robust measures in place to address them. However, Canadians should always be alert to the danger of terrorism and report any suspicious activity to the National Security Tip Line (1-800-420-5805) or by contacting their local police.
Our government stands firm in our commitment to protect this country from terrorists and the fear they hope to cause. Canada will stay vigilant and united, and continue to safeguard our rights and freedoms.
I'd also like to add that the call for applications under the Security Infrastructure Program was scheduled to close tomorrow. The Department of Public Safety will extend that deadline, so that places of worship, community centres, and educational institutions have a chance to re-examine their security infrastructure – and consider bolstering it.
As the investigation is ongoing, authorities are limited in the information they can provide. More information will be made available when possible."
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For more information, please visit the website www.publicsafety.gc.ca.
SOURCE Public Safety and Emergency Preparedness Canada
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Scott Bardsley, Office of the Minister of Public Safety and Emergency Preparedness, 613-998-5681; Media Relations, Public Safety Canada, (613) 991-0657
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