August 13, 2013 - Andrew Bennett, Canada’s Ambassador for Religious Freedom, today issued the following statement:
“Canada expresses concern over the attack on Grandpass Mosque in Grandpass, Sri Lanka, on August 10, 2013.
“This is just one of a number of recent and troubling attacks targeting the Muslim community in that country. It is of utmost importance that every person is able to practise his or her faith free from the threat of violence.
“Canada also regrets the reports of violence, injury and loss of life during protests in Weliweriya, Sri Lanka, on August 1, 2013. We are deeply concerned by reports that protesters seeking refuge in a Catholic church were attacked. We offer our condolences to the families of the deceased and wish a speedy recovery to the injured. We urge authorities to respect the right of peaceful protest and the sanctity of places of worship.
“Canada will continue to condemn all attacks on places of worship. We urge calm on all sides and call for a swift and transparent investigation into what happened, as well as appropriate prosecution for both events.”
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