Statement by New Democrat leader Jack Layton on the Air India tragedy

Next week will mark a quarter century since the tragic Air India bombing of 1985, and Canadians are still waiting for justice.

The families of the 331 innocent victims have endured pain that is beyond words. My heart breaks to think they have been waiting 25 years to hear answers from the federal government on how Canada was home to one of the worst acts of terrorism in our country’s history.

In addition to helping families heal, wounds will be reopened with the release of a federal inquiry report investigating the Air India bombing.

Will this report bring peace and closure to the victims’ families? Will the guilty face justice? Will government agencies share information and collaborate to protect Canadians? Does this report respond to current threats of terrorism and prevent future attacks? These are important questions requiring urgent, honest answers by our federal leaders.

After almost two decades of stonewalling by the government, the victims’ families have shown tremendous strength, courage and patience.

Hopefully this report will help shed light on errors made during the investigation and ensure a tragedy like Air India 182 never happens again.

I urge all Canadians to take a moment and reflect on one of the most horrendous acts of violence in Canada’s history, and join the families in support and solidarity, as they continue to grieve and mourn the loss of their loved ones.