Members of the local Muslim community say they’re afraid to go to their places of worship following a suspicious fire at a Peterborough, Ont., mosque.
Police say the fire was deliberately set, prompting increased security at mosques in Halifax.
“I feel kind of worried about my kids and my family when they are going to the mosque,” said Hisham Eshaft.
“Of course I have to think about it,” said Mamdough Eldak, another member of the Muslim community. “It's not really safe, but I have to go.”
Imam Abdelkader Tayebi says police recommended the security increase.
“We had to check our security systems to make sure that the place is safe, safe for the worshippers who come here,” said Tayebi.
Tayebi says while members of the community have reached out to him with concern, he isn’t worried.
“I am not expecting anything from our community,” he said. “We love our community and we do expect that our community loves us as well.”
While some have expressed fear in the aftermath of the Paris attacks, others say they’re concerned about Canada's plan to accept 25,000 Syrian refugees by the end of the year.
Nova Scotia Immigration Minister Lena Diab says plans are moving ahead as planned.
“As I have said many times, Nova Scotia is ready to do its part,” said Diab. “We must do so keeping the safety and security of Nova Scotian families as our top priority.”
Diab says Nova Scotians can now call 211 to offer assistance.
“This can include clothing, food, lodging or financial donations,” said Diab.
Tayebi says there is a genuine concern when it comes to the safe resettlement of refugees that should be considered.
“However, that should not deter us from helping, from really rising above all these challenges,” said Tayebi.
Tayebi says while Muslims do not condone the Paris attacks, they don’t apologize either. He says the attacks have nothing to do with the religion, and Muslims deserve to worship in peace.
With files from CTV Atlantic’s Kayla Hounsell.
