MS, Cabinet Secretary for Social
Justice, Trefnydd and Chief Whip: The shocking terrorist attack
on Sunday at a Hanukkah celebration on Bondi Beach in Sydney was
a brutal assault on the values we all hold dear. Fifteen innocent
lives were lost and many more were injured during what should
have been a time of light, peace, and celebration. My thoughts
are with the victims, their families, and the Jewish community in
Australia and across the world.
No one should ever face violence for practising or celebrating
their faith. This attack on a Jewish community gathering is an
attack on the freedoms and principles that underpin democratic
society. We condemn this act of antisemitic hatred.
The news of this dreadful event will be deeply worrying for
Jewish communities here in Wales. In recent days, I have spoken
with faith leaders and representatives to listen to their
concerns and reaffirm our commitment to their safety and
wellbeing. Yesterday, I met Jewish leaders to reassure them of
Welsh Government's continued support for the community and
commitment to ensuring that anti-semitism has no place in Wales
or indeed any society.
I recognise that the recent reports of two young people from
Cardiff appearing in court, accused of planning a terrorist
attack targeting both a Mosque and a Jewish cemetery in Cardiff,
may also increase community concerns. Whilst we cannot comment on
this specific case, we stand firmly with our Jewish and Muslim
communities and will continue to challenge extremism and foster
unity, respect, and understanding.
Welsh Police Forces have increased patrols around religious
sites, supported by the Joint Firearms Unit, and are working
closely with the National Counter Terrorism Security Office to
monitor tensions and provide reassurances to communities.
Ministers have also raised these issues with policing partners at
the Policing Partnership Board for Wales.
The Welsh Government will continue to work closely with schools,
colleges, and universities to tackle prejudice-related bullying,
including antisemitism. We remain committed to ensuring that
Wales is a place where diversity is valued and protected.
I urge everyone to stand together with our religious communities
and all communities affected by hate. Violence and division will
never define us.
Our Wales Hate Support Centre (run by Victim Support) stands
ready to provide free, confidential advice and guidance if you
believe you have been a victim of hate crime. The Centre is
available 24 hours a day, 365 days a year via www.reporthate.victimsupport.org.uk,
by calling 0300 3031 982, or by
e-mail Hate.CrimeWales@victimsupport.org.uk.
