Statement by the Honourable Ralph Goodale, Minister of Public Safety and Emergency Preparedness, following his visit to the Centre for the prevention of radicalization leading to violence with Montreal Mayor Denis Coderre and Quebec Minister of Public Security Martin Coiteux

MONTREAL, Aug. 15, 2016 /CNW/ - Today's visit to the Centre for the prevention of radicalization leading to violence in Montreal reinforced for me the importance for the Government of Canada to continue to work with community organizations and governments at all levels to address this issue of growing concern.

The events of last week in Strathroy, Ontario, demonstrate the need for continued vigilance in responding to threats posed by individuals who have radicalized to the point of violence.

We must strive to make Canada a global leader in countering the dark influences that draw people - especially young people – down that dangerous path.

Addressing this issue is critical to preserving our country's democratic nature and ensuring it remains pluralist, inclusive and tolerant. The Government of Canada's work to create a new national office for community outreach and engagement will also help to achieve that goal by pursuing research, mobilizing resources, and helping to coordinate work at all levels.

Community-based organizations like the Centre for the prevention of radicalization in Montreal play an important role. Working together with all levels of governments and society, Canada can show leadership in identifying radicalization to violence and techniques for countering it.

Follow Public Safety Canada (@Safety_Canada) on Twitter.

For more information, please visit the website www.publicsafety.gc.ca.

SOURCE Public Safety and Emergency Preparedness Canada

Scott Bardsley, Office of the Minister of Public Safety and Emergency Preparedness, 613-998-5681; Media Relations, Public Safety Canada, [phone]