Statement by the Prime Minister on issue of free speech and controversial caricatures

Prime Minister Stephen Harper today issued the following statement:

“Free speech is a right that all Canadians enjoy; Canadians also have the right to voice their opinion on the free speech of others. I regret the publication of this material in several media outlets. While we understand this issue is divisive, our government wishes that people be respectful of the beliefs of others.  I commend the Canadian Muslim community for voicing its opinion peacefully, respectfully and democratically.”