Premier Christy Clark has issued the following statement on the Quebec City mosque shooting:

“Like all Canadians, I was shocked and saddened by the tragic shooting in Quebec. Like all houses of worship, mosques are sanctuaries of peace and reflection. There is no greater violation.

“The world looks at Canada as a beacon of hope and peace, not just because of our diversity, but because we celebrate and embrace it. That is our greatest strength – and must not change.

“As Canadians, we must speak up in the face of rising intolerance and hatred. Those who would seek to divide us through fear prey on silence, but they will fail. We will continue to cherish our differences, and welcome the world to our shores.

“All British Columbians join with our fellow Canadians to mourn those lost in yesterday’s tragic events. You will not be forgotten.”