Ms. Libby Davies (Vancouver East, NDP): – Mr. Speaker, on behalf of the NDP, we express sorrow and concern regarding the tragic and devastating earthquake in China. We offer our sincere condolences to the victims and families in Sichuan, Beichuan, Shaanxi, Gansu, Chongqing, Yunnan and Henan and other areas that were affected.

The loss of life, the suffering of communities and the grief of individual families is deeply saddening. We extend our deepest sympathy to those who are suffering losses in China, as well as to the Chinese Canadian community who are coping with this loss and the unknown whereabouts of family and friends in the wake of this terrible tragedy.

All Canadians share this grief and loss, and hope for recovery and support to rebuild the lives of survivors and their communities. We urge the Canadian government to demonstrate its compassion and support by providing any immediate assistance possible.

Our thoughts and prayers are with China and its people.