Jane Hutt 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.