NLIS 9
September 19, 2001
(MHA)
 

The following is being distributed at the request of Ernie McLean, MHA - Lake Melville:

McLean thanks emergency response crews

Ernie McLean, MHA - Lake Melville and Minister of Labrador and Aboriginal Affairs, said he's proud of the emergency response effort at the Happy Valley-Goose Bay airport last week following the terrorist attacks in the United States.

"As the tragedy unfolded in New York and Washington, many of us were left wondering why anybody would carry out such senseless acts," he said. "The destruction of the World Trade Center, the extensive damage to the Pentagon, and the loss of thousands of innocent lives, have left us in deep shock. 

"Within a few short hours following the attacks, the people of Happy Valley-Goose Bay, and other airport towns in this province, responded to the call for help. More than 800 people, whose flights were diverted to the Happy Valley-Goose Bay airport, received nothing but the best in hospitality from emergency support workers and countless volunteers."

Mr. McLean said he was impressed by the professional manner in which emergency response crews and volunteers conducted themselves throughout the week.

"I would like to take this opportunity to thank everyone who played a role, whether big or small," he said. "It's comforting to know that the people of Happy Valley-Goose Bay and, indeed, the entire Upper Lake Melville area, are able to conduct themselves in such a professional manner when difficult situations arise. They should be very proud of their efforts."

Media contact: Bert Pomeroy, Communications, (709) 896-8668.

2001 09 19                                         3:40 p.m.