Statement by the Honourable Chuck Strahl on the Tragic Loss of two Members of Indian and Northern Affairs Canada

Ref. #2-3377

Ottawa, Ontario (June 25, 2010) — The Honourable Chuck Strahl, Minister of Indian Affairs and Northern Development and Federal Interlocutor for Métis and Non-Status Indians, issued the following statement today:

“I am deeply saddened by the sudden loss of two valuable members of Indian and Northern Affairs Canada's Quebec Region in a tragic accident on June 23rd. Nicole Brouard and Gérald Joncas were on their way to Natashquan to work with the community on the construction of a new school, when their plane crashed on take off outside Quebec City.

Words are not enough to express the shock and profound sorrow we feel on this sad occasion. The loss of such dedicated colleagues, engaged and committed as they were to making a difference for Aboriginal people and for all Canadians, is a heavy blow not only to Indian and Northern Affairs Canada, but also to the Aboriginal community they served.

On behalf of myself and the Government of Canada, I wish to extend my heartfelt condolences to the families, friends and colleagues of Ms. Brouard and Mr. Joncas, as well as those of the five other people who were victims of this tragic event.”

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