April 25, 2016
OTTAWA – Rona Ambrose, Leader of the Official Opposition and interim Leader of the Conservative Party of Canada, issued the following statement regarding the murder of Canadian citizen John Ridsdel by terrorists in the Philippines.
“The news that Abu Sayyaf terrorists have executed John Ridsdel is shocking and saddening. All Canadians held out hope that all the innocent civilians that have been taken hostage would be returned safely. We continue to hope for a resolution to this situation where all other hostages will return safely home to their families.
“Incidents like this should remind all of us that the threat of terrorism remains very real. We must stand with our allies in solidarity against terrorism, which remains the greatest challenge that the world faces today.
“On behalf of the Official Opposition, I extend my deepest sympathies to Mr. Ridsdel’s family and loved ones. We cannot begin to understand the pain you are feeling today, and we pray that you find peace with one another as Canadians stand with you.”
