Monday and Tuesday mark the second anniversary of the worst mass killing in the country’s history.
On April 18 and 19, 2020, a gunman killed 22 people in a 13-hour rampage, from Portapique, N.S., to Shubenacadie, N.S., before he was killed by police at the Enfield Big Stop.
The provincial government is holding a moment of silence at noon on both Monday and Tuesday to honour the victims.
Premier Tim Houston says the massacre changed the province forever.
“Two years after this unspeakable tragedy, the heartbreak and sorrow remain,” he says. “We cannot imagine the pain and suffering the victims’ families have endured. We stand with you today and on all days.”
Flags at Province House, and all other provincial government buildings, will be at half-mast both days. The province is also encouraging all other groups flying flags to lower them to half-mast on those days.
Houston says his government will introduce legislation this fall to officially designate April 18 and 19 as Provincial Days of Remembrance.
Inquiry paused for anniversary week
The Mass Causality Commission’s public proceedings are being paused for the week, of Apr. 18 to 22, in honour of the victims, their families, and everyone else affected by the mass killing.
A joint statement from Commissioners Hon. J. Michael MacDonald, Leanne J. Fitch (Ret. Police Chief, M.O.M.), and Dr. Kim Stanton was issued Thursday.
“To the families of those whose lives were taken-as always, we offer our deepest and heartfelt sympathies. To everyone affected by the mass casualty, including the families, witnesses, first responders and service providers, affected community members and the wider public in Nova Scotia, Canada and beyond-please know the entire Commission team is working hard to fulfil our mandate.”
It says they believe the best tribute is to continue the inquiry’s work.
They say it is their unwavering resolve and ongoing commitment.
