Following news of the devastating terror attacks in Sri Lanka on Easter Sunday, on behalf of myself and all Newham Councillors and staff, I would like to add my condolences to all of those who’ve lost loved ones, suffered injury and trauma as a result of this senseless and devastating act of evil.
The shock waves from the attack continue to ripple around the world as the toll of death and injury mount. There are now 321 confirmed dead, including eight British nationals, and hundreds more are injured.
The effects of the attack have hit us hard here in Newham, where one of the largest Sri Lankan communities in Britain have made our borough their home.
On Monday Deputy Mayor Charlene McLean met with members of our Sri Lankan community to offer heartfelt condolences and make urgent plans for a fitting remembrance event.
At that meeting Deputy Mayor McLean read out the following statement from me: “It is with great sorrow and heavy hearts that our community is gathered at the Trinity Centre today, including members of our Sri Lankan community who contribute so much to our borough.
“I am sorry that I can’t be with you all during this important moment, but I will be joining a remembrance event being planned for this weekend and wanted to convey now my thoughts, condolences and sorrow.
“Our Sri Lankan community in Newham, amongst the largest in the country have, like all of us, been devastated by the events that took place on Easter Sunday in Sri Lanka - and our hearts are broken at the pain and devastation the terrorist attack has caused to so many lives, including the friends and loved ones of our Sri Lankan residents in Newham.
“We knew that following the heinous attack on humanity - the subsequent hours, days and weeks will be filled with news of many more of our residents in Newham who’ll have been affected by this devastation because their families or friends lives over in Sri Lanka have been ruptured.
“Like all acts of terrorism plaguing the world, it was a cowardly attack targeting the Christian community in Sri Lanka, its tourists and its people. Especially heinous was the targeting of those going to church on Easter morning, the most Holy Day for Christians globally.”
“This weekend the council will support the community to hold a candle lit prayer and vigil; alongside a special church service of remembrance, and at 11:30 today the council held a two-minutes silence across council offices, to remember the victims, families and Sri Lankan community affected by this appalling terror attack.
“All of us will want to support any efforts to help where we can, including fundraising efforts needed for victims and orphans."
In the coming weeks and months, let's redouble our dedication to create a world where hope and peace resigns over the destructive forces causing violence in the world.
“Stay blessed and let’s take comfort in our dedication to create a world where hope and peace reigns over destruction and evil.”
On Saturday 27 April 2019 the council is supporting a community candlelit vigil on the main steps at Newham Town Hall, to which residents are invited. The vigil will start promptly at 11am. The vigil will be followed by a silent walk to St Michael’s Church in Tilbury Road, East Ham, E6 for an Interfaith Service which finishes at 1pm. In the case of rain please note that the Candlelit Vigil will still take place at both venues.