News / SIC’s sympathy for Nice
THE FRENCH tricolour flag was flown at half-mast outside Lerwick’s Town Hall on Friday after 84 people were killed when a lorry ploughed through Bastille Day celebrations in Nice.
Shetland Islands Council also lowered the Union Jack on top of the building, as well as a Shetland flag outside the front door.
At least 84 people died on Thursday night as packed crowds celebrated France’s national day on the Promenade des Anglais.
A further 18 people were taken to hospital in a critical condition, while the attacker was shot dead by police.
President Francois Hollande responded by stating that the attack was of an “undeniable terrorist nature”.
SIC convener Malcolm Bell said on Friday morning that his thoughts were with the people of France.
Just eight months ago widespread gun attacks in capital city Paris killed 130 people.
“Last night’s attack on crowds of civilians in Nice, who were simply enjoying festivities on Bastille Day, is yet another dreadful tragedy for France,” Bell said.
“My heart goes out to the families affected, those in the emergency services who responded, and the people of France, including the many French citizens who have made their homes here in Shetland.
“It has all the hallmarks of another terrorist attack on a democracy and this shocking event is a painful reminder of the need for continued vigilance by all of us. I have, this morning, written to the consul general of France in Edinburgh, offering our deepest sympathy.”
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