Thursday, 2 May 2019

Sri Lanka terrorist attacks

Ms STITT (Western Metropolitan) (10:48): On 14 April I had the great pleasure of attending the Sri Lankan Multicultural Day for Unity in Deer Park, together with my colleague in the other place the member for Melton, Steve McGhie; local councillors; and community leaders. It was a celebration of unity marking the Buddhist New Year hosted by the Western Victoria Sri-Lankan Buddhist Association. It was an inclusive, warm and uplifting celebration of Sri Lankan culture and showed the very best of our multicultural community in Melbourne’s west.

None of us were to know that just one week later Sri Lanka would be rocked by one of the most shocking and violent terrorist attacks we have seen, on Easter Sunday. I offer my deepest condolences to all those touched by this shocking act of violence. I know the Sri Lankan community at home and abroad, irrespective of the faith that they practise, will be deeply grieving for the many victims and for the shattering of the fragile peace of that country after decades of conflict. To the many thousands of Victorians of Sri Lankan heritage, including colleagues in this place, and to those Sri Lankan communities, I extend my deepest sympathies: I know you will draw strength from each other. Also please know that you are not alone. The Victorian community stands with you.