President Todd Russell issued the following statement today on the tragic mass shooting in Tumbler Ridge this week:
The NunatuKavut Community Council (NCC) and all our people join with the Nation in mourning the unfathomable loss of life during Tuesday’s mass shooting in Tumbler Ridge, BC. Our prayers and thoughts are also with those who are injured and we wish them well in their recovery.
We, too, have been shaken by this unimaginable event. NunatuKavut Inuit mostly live in small, northern, remote communities throughout southern Labrador. We are a very close and caring community like Tumbler Ridge and intimately understand the impact that tragedy can have on a small, tight-knit community. We are also a resilient people and I know that the people of Tumbler Ridge are likewise resilient. You are not alone and we stand with you.
In the midst of global uncertainty, and this tragedy, our Prime Minister will be with the people of Tumbler Ridge today. It is uplifting to witness Prime Minister Carney’s leadership and the leadership of a number of other political leaders in Canada who will be present there today. Our fellow Canadians need his and all of our support during this difficult time. When it comes to the needs and priorities of Canadians, there can be no political divide, no boundaries. This is particularly so in the face of a national tragedy like what has happened in Tumbler Ridge.
On behalf of NCC and all NunatuKavut Inuit, we offer our deepest condolences to the families and friends of those who lost their lives, as well as those in the wider Tumbler Ridge community.
NCC will be making a donation to fundraising efforts to assist the people of Tumbler Ridge.