March 13, 2009

It was with great sadness that my husband, Jean-Daniel Lafond, and I learned of the terrible helicopter accident that occurred yesterday east of St. John’s, Newfoundland. The 18 people on board, including two members of the Cougar Helicopters flight crew, 14 workers from the Sea Rose floating production vessel and two from the Hibernia platform, were en route to oil platforms.

My thoughts go out first to the concerned families and loved ones of the person who died and of those who are still missing. I would also like to extend my deepest sympathies to the colleagues who are mourning this tragedy. Our thoughts are also with the injured survivor, to whom we wish a speedy recovery.

I would like to thank the officers of the Coast Guard for their tireless and monumental efforts deployed during the rescue operation.

Michaëlle Jean

‑ 30 ‑

Media information
Isabelle Serrurier 
Rideau Hall Press Office  
613-998-7280 
www.gg.ca     
www.citizenvoices.gg.ca