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TORONTO — Canada’s public safety minister said Thursday he was “shocked and appalled” after a New Democratic Party MP rose in the House of Commons to commemorate Tamil Heroes Day, which honours fallen Tamil Tigers rebels.

Steven Blaney urged Rathika Sitsabaiesan, a Sri Lankan-born rookie MP, to apologize “to veterans and all Canadians” for her statement that called the day “an important event” and likened it to Remembrance Day.

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[np_storybar title=”Rathika Sitsabaiesan’s statement” link=””]

“Mr. Speaker as Canadians of Tamil heritage in November we commemorate two important events, Remembrance Day and the Tamil Heroes Day. This month symbolizes the beauty of life because we remember all those who sacrifice their lives for the rest of us to live in peace and freedom. We remember that each and every one of the people who have been caught in the crossfires of war throughout the ages have embraced life over death but those who made the ultimate sacrifice ensured that we who survived would be able to live with dignity and with liberties. This month provides us with the occasion not only to remember and pay tribute to the heroes but also to reflect on the lessons of the struggle for justice, peace and a life free from discrimination. Sadly on the island country of Sri Lanka where I was born as a child of war the discrimination and injustices continue and the ethnic and religious minorities continue to live without peace and in fear. Mr. Speaker let us always work for peace at home and abroad and as always support those who put their lives on the line. From the bottom of my heart I thank you all lest we forget.”

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