Brampton - It was with great shock and dismay that I learned of the sixteen year old boy who was stabbed inside Chinguacousy Secondary High School in Brampton.

This senseless act of violence was not only callous and cowardly, but sadly, took place in an otherwise excellent Brampton school.  Public schools should be a safe haven for children to expand their minds and enhance their creativity without fear for their safety.

In an unfortunate situation such as this, we may wish to take pause and think beyond our instinctive reactions toward the seventeen year old boy charged with committing this crime.  Although many of the details behind yesterday's incident are still unknown, we must also recognize there are often many complex social issues involved that may contribute to the increase of these violent incidents occurring in schools today.

As a Liberal, I believe early collaboration between all levels of government is the first step toward addressing these social challenges.  By working together, we create the foundations for the strongest and most vibrant communities possible where our children can be nurtured and safe.

I urge Prime Minister Stephen Harper and the Conservative government to show leadership to our children, families and communities on difficult issues like this, and to review their roles, responsibilities and relationships with the other levels of government. 

On behalf of the constituents of Brampton-Springdale, I wish a speedy recovery to the young victim of this situation, and will continue to work towards a brighter and safer future for our communities.