Hon. Kristopher Wells: Honourable Senator Moreau, senior national security personnel have raised growing concerns over the unprecedented security threats facing Jewish communities across Canada. Over a week ago, I met with Holocaust survivors, here in this very building, who expressed grave concerns about the rise of anti-Semitism and hatred in our country.

Their message was sobering: “Never again” must be more than a promise to remember the Holocaust; it must be a commitment to confront hatred wherever it emerges. They warned that Jewish Canadians are increasingly living with fear and uncertainty, raising deeply troubling questions about whether we are honouring that commitment here in Canada.

In light of these growing threats, what immediate and concrete measures will the government take to address these rising threats and to protect synagogues, Jewish students and community institutions and ensure that Jewish Canadians can practise their faith and participate in public life without fear for their safety?

Hon. Pierre Moreau (Government Representative in the Senate): Thank you for the question, Senator Wells. I too met with Holocaust survivors. I would like to thank Senator Housakos, who introduced me to that very important group.

To answer your question, the Prime Minister announced the launch of Canada’s new ministerial Advisory Council on Rights, Equality and Inclusion. It will be their mission to combat hate and guide the government as they build a fairer, more inclusive Canada.

This builds on $75 million committed to the Canada Community Security Program, or CCSP, which will allow more eligible organizations to implement security enhancements and help foster safer communities. This is in addition to the $10 million to be provided to organizations through the CCSP in order to respond directly to the security needs of Jewish communities. Anti-Semitism has no place anywhere here in Canada.

Senator K. Wells: Thank you, Senator Moreau.

With the passage of Bill C-9 last June, what steps is the government taking to support its effective implementation, including training police and Crown prosecutors to better recognize, investigate and prosecute hate-motivated offences? How will the government also support public education to encourage the reporting of hate crimes and strengthen trust between law enforcement and vulnerable communities targeted by hate?

Senator Moreau: Thank you again.

I’ve been told that police and governments are taking more direct steps to protect Jewish communities and others at elevated risk of hate-motivated incidents across Canada. Governments, educational institutions, police services, prosecutors and community organizations are investing in training and public education, expanding education and awareness initiatives and focusing on contemporary anti-Semitism. I can advise that thousands of police officers in Ontario, for instance, have —

The Hon. the Speaker pro tempore: Thank you, Senator Moreau.