Today, the Honourable Steven Blaney, Canada’s Minister of Public Safety and Emergency Preparedness, announced he would attend an international summit in Washington, D.C., Thursday, February 19, to discuss building secure and resilient communities that reject and condemn violent extremism.

“The international jihadist movement has declared war on Canada and its allies. Individuals returning home after travelling abroad to take part in terrorist activities present a serious security threat to Canada with newly-acquired abilities to carry out domestic attacks, as well as to recruit and radicalize others. As we all have seen, Canadians are being targeted by jihadi terrorists simply because these terrorists hate our society and the values it represents. That is why our Government has put forward measures that protect Canadians against all forms of terrorism.

“Later today, Parliamentarians in the House of Commons will debate the Anti-terrorism Act, 2015.  In advance of this summit, I am urging all Members of Parliament to support these measures that will keep our country safe from acts of terror. Under the leadership of Prime Minister Harper, we will not sit on the sidelines – we are taking action to confront this evil, here at home and around the world.

“On Thursday, I will deliver remarks on behalf of Canada, outlining the importance of the Anti-terrorism Act, 2015. This legislation, supported by our Five Eye partners and Canadian law enforcement, will give our national security agencies and front-line police the tools they need to protect Canadians against the ever evolving threat of terrorism. While in Washington, I will meet with my counterparts from around the world to discuss domestic and international efforts to prevent violent extremists and their supporters from radicalizing, recruiting, or inspiring individuals or groups to commit acts of terrorism. The highest responsibility of any government is to help keep Canadians safe and our country secure. Given recent horrific terrorist attacks, including in our country, Canada and its allies are resolved to ensure the security and freedom of our citizens.”