Ottawa, ON - The Hon. Pierre Poilievre, Leader of His Majesty's Loyal Opposition and the Conservative Party of Canada, released the following statement on the National Day of Remembrance for Victims of Terrorism:

"Forty-one years ago, we witnessed the deadliest terrorist attack in our nation's history. On June 23, 1985, a bomb exploded on Air India Flight 182, claiming all 329 lives on board, 280 of them Canadians.

"As we pause to remember the lives lost on that tragic day, we are reminded of the true cost of terrorism, one that is too often paid with innocent lives. Canadians mourn the loss of those whose lives have been taken by atrocious acts of terror and pray for the families and loved ones who have suffered so much.

"Today is a chance to remember and mourn all those who died at the hands of murderous terrorists, including those who perished in the attack on the World Trade Center nearly a quarter century ago, and far too many who have lost their lives since. Across our land, we see violent ideologies on the march, terrorizing our schools, our streets and our sanctuaries.

"We must protect our people. Confronting terrorism and pursuing justice for victims and their loved ones is a responsibility we all share. We remain steadfast in our commitment to confront those seeking to commit these vile acts and prevent them from taking place.

"Today, we stand with those in mourning. But we will not be intimidated. Let us rededicate ourselves to defend what they seek to destroy: freedom over fear and light over darkness. We remain committed to this essential mission, and to ensure that Canada will never be a safe harbour for terrorism."