Wakefield Council pays tribute to those killed in Paris shooting

Two gunmen shouting Islamist slogans stormed a magazine office yesterday (Wednesday) and killed 12 people.

French police are still hunting two suspects in connection with the incident.

Coun Box said: “What happened in Paris on Wednesday morning as a group of ordinary citizens went to work was deeply shocking.

“Our thoughts and prayers are with the families and friends of the journalists and police officers killed, people who waved them off to work fully expecting them to come home at the end of the day.

“Instead, they received the terrible news of this shooting in the offices of the satirical magazine Charlie Hebdo. It sent shock waves round the world.

“As Paris holds a national day of mourning for those killed, we also remember them at this very sad time.

“In their memories, we must continue to stand strong against terrorism and fight for the freedom of speech.

“I am proud that in the district we foster tolerance, understanding and respect for each other in our communities.

“We must do all we can to make sure we live by these principles, even when challenged by such tragic events as those in Paris this week.”

The Mayor of Wakefield Coun Sandra Pickin, will lead a minute’s silence for the victims at a full council meeting next Wednesday and the council will be sending a letter of condolence to the French Ambassador.