Executive Council
Natural Resources
March 12, 2014

Remembering Cougar Flight 491

Province Commemorates the Anniversary of Cougar Flight 491

The Provincial Government today recognized the anniversary of the Cougar Flight 491 tragedy that occurred five years ago on March 12, 2009.

“March 12 will forever be remembered as a day of unspeakable sorrow in Newfoundland and Labrador, a day that will never be forgotten by the people of our province and Canada. I extend my deepest sympathy to the families and friends of the 17 victims who continue to grieve the loss of life they experienced on this day five years ago.”
- The Honourable Tom Marshall, Premier of Newfoundland and Labrador

Cougar Flight 491 was en route to the SeaRose Floating Production Storage and Offloading vessel (FPSO) and the Hibernia Platform when it ditched in the North Atlantic.

“Offshore safety is paramount in Newfoundland and Labrador. Our government accepts all of the recommendations of the Helicopter Safety Inquiry, many of which have already been implemented. We will continue to advocate for the implementation of all recommendations and work with our partners, including the Government of Canada, to make that happen.”
- The Honourable Derrick Dalley, Minister of Natural Resources

Offshore safety is a priority in Newfoundland and Labrador. The Provincial Government remains committed to ensuring the health and safety of the province’s offshore workers and the protection of the environment.

QUICK FACTS

• The Cougar Flight 491 tragedy occurred on March 12, 2009.
• The Provincial Government is committed to worker health and safety and environmental protection.
• The Provincial Government supports all of the recommendations of the Offshore Helicopter Safety Inquiry.
• Construction of the Offshore Helicopter Accident Memorial is underway, with completion and installation at Quidi Vidi Lake in St. John’s anticipated in late summer.

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2014 03 12                                        9:15 a.m.