Bury stands in solidarity with France following Paris atrocities

Civic and faith leaders in Bury have voiced their solidarity with France and the victims of this weekend’s atrocities in Paris.

The French flag will fly at half-mast outside the town hall today (Mon 16 Nov), alongside the Union flag, as the borough shows its support for our near neighbours.

Councillor Mike Connolly, leader of the council, said: “Our hearts go out to the people of France following these attacks, and our deepest sympathies go to the families and friends of those who died.

“We’ve had close links with France for decades with twin towns in Angouleme and Tulle, and I will be sending a message of sympathy to their residents expressing our sorrow and our wish to stand with them at this terrible time.”

Cllr Connolly said every section of the community was appalled at the Paris attacks, which had nothing to do with the true meaning of Islam.

“These atrocities were indiscriminate, and carried out by cold-blooded murderers, pure and simple,” he said.

“We believe in democracy and the rule of law, in tolerance and respect for others’ beliefs, and the right to disagree peacefully. The whole community in Bury will join together to defend those values against those who would destroy our very way of life.”

Mohammed Soqheel, on behalf of Bury’s Strategic Interfaith Group, said: “All faith communities of Bury express their deep shock and sadness at the events in Paris. We wish to express our solidarity with all French citizens and those within our communities that may have been affected.

“In the wake of this horrific criminal act inflicted upon the people of Paris and by extension, upon people throughout the world, any act of violence against innocent people is an act of violence against all innocent people.

“Our thoughts and condolences are with the people of France and the authorities. We pray for the relatives and friends of those who have lost their lives so tragically. We as a community will continue to work together to foster tolerance, peace and understanding.

ENDS

Press release issued: 16 November 2015.

Picture: The French tricolor and the Union flag fly at half-mast outside Bury Town Hall.