Provincial Government Remembers the Ocean Ranger Tragedy

  • Executive Council
  • Natural Resources
  • Service NL

February 15, 2019

Today marks the 37th anniversary of the Ocean Ranger’s sinking off the coast of Newfoundland and Labrador. The Government of Newfoundland and Labrador joins all Newfoundlanders and Labradorians as we remember the 84 lives that were tragically lost on this day in 1982.

The annual Ocean Ranger memorial prayer service will be held at 10:45 a.m. today (Friday, February 15) at St. Pius X Church, 16 Smithville Crescent, St. John’s.

Quotes
“Newfoundlanders and Labradorians will forever remember the loss of 84 lives in the Ocean Ranger tragedy. An anniversary which is not only engrained in the history of our province, but that also serves as a somber reminder of the risks people take while working offshore in an effort to provide for their families. We will continue to place significant emphasis on providing a safe and healthy environment for our offshore workers. I extend my deepest sympathies and send my thoughts and prayers to the families and friends affected by the loss of loved ones.”
Honourable Dwight Ball
Premier of Newfoundland and Labrador

“Today especially, we remember those lost on the Ocean Ranger.‎ The tragedy impacted the lives of many and made us all aware, yet again, of the perils of the sea. Every day we must continue to ensure safety is paramount in our offshore.”
Honourable Siobhan Coady
Minister of Natural Resources

“February 15, 1982, will forever be etched in our hearts. The Ocean Ranger tragedy was a terrible loss of life that serves as a reminder of the importance of occupational health and safety for all workplaces, including our offshore industries. As we remember and feel this loss very deeply, even 37 years later, it is also a call for us to maintain our focus on a culture of safety for all workers in Newfoundland and Labrador.”
Honourable Sherry Gambin-Walsh
Minister of Service NL

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Media contacts
Erin Sulley
Office of the Premier
709-729-3960
erinsulley@gov.nl.ca

Kathryn Summers
Natural Resources
709-729-0425, 730-2522
kathrynsummers@gov.nl.ca

Krista Dalton
Service NL
709-729-4748, 6856492
kristadalton@gov.nl.ca

2019 02 15 9:15 am