Chief to Recognise Chanukah Alongside Jewish Community

Chief Minister Alfred Cannan MHK will recognise the Jewish festival of Chanukah (Hanukkah) this afternoon by lighting a candle at a private ceremony alongside members of the Isle of Man’s Jewish Community, the Lieutenant Governor and the Lord Bishop, who is hosting the event.

The Chief Minister said: ‘While today’s arrangements have been in place for some time, they take on extra significance following yesterday’s tragic events in Sydney.

‘My thoughts are with the Jewish community, who will understandably still be coming to terms with what’s happened. The Isle of Man Government sends its deepest condolences to all those affected by this horrific attack.’

Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese has condemned a deadly shooting at a Hanukkah event on Sydney’s Bondi Beach, in which 15 people, including a 10-year-old girl, were killed, describing it as an act of antisemitism and terrorism.

Police say the attack was carried out by a father and son, one of whom was shot dead by officers, with the incident declared a terror attack and prompting renewed calls to strengthen Australia’s gun laws.