Executive Council
March 12, 2010

Premier Williams Commemorates Victims on
One Year Anniversary of Cougar Flight 491 Tragedy

The Honourable Danny Williams, Premier of Newfoundland and Labrador, today expressed the deep sorrow that remains in the hearts of all Newfoundlanders and Labradorians, and indeed all Canadians, in remembering the victims of Cougar Flight 491 that crashed off the province's shores one year ago today on March 12, 2009.

"March 12 marks a sad day in our province's history, one of profound tragedy that shook our entire province and changed countless lives forever," said Premier Williams. "Our sincerest thoughts remain with the families and friends who continue to mourn the unimaginable loss they experienced on this day one year ago. I pray they find comfort through knowing these 17 precious lives will not be forgotten and will remain in our memories, in our hearts and in our prayers forever."

Cougar Flight 491 went down while transporting workers to two offshore platforms. Seventeen of the 18 people onboard died when the chopper plummeted into the Atlantic Ocean. There was one lone survivor, Mr. Robert Decker.

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2010 03 12                         9:00 a.m.