By CCU President John Hanrahan

On Saturday October 10, bombs exploded in Ankara, Turkey at a peaceful demonstration organized by unions and non-governmental organizations (NGOs). The message of the protesters was a call for peace. The CCU’s best sources report that 86 protesters were killed and hundreds wounded.

The Confederation of Canadian Unions calls on the Turkish government to engage in a full and transparent investigation of these cowardly attacks that are obviously directed against the exercise of democracy and the basic human right of political dissent.

We unreservedly support the right of peaceful dissent and freedom of expression. The Turkish government must provide and not inhibit a climate where these rights can be exercised in the spirit of freedom and democracy. Water cannons and tear gas must give way to fellowship, dialogue and respect.

The Confederation of Canadian Unions offers deep condolences to the families and friends of our fallen comrades.

Solidarity to DISK (Confederation of Progressive Trade Unions of Turkey)
Solidarity to KESK (Confederation of Public Workers’ Unions)
Solidarity to HDP (Peoples’ Democratic Party)