March 03, 2005
Ottawa, Ontario

“It is with great sorrow that I have learned of the tragic deaths of four Royal Canadian Mounted Police officers today in Rochfort Bridge, Alberta.

The Deputy Prime Minister has spoken with the Commissioner of the RCMP and is following the situation closely.

Canadians are shocked by this brutality, and join me in condemning the violent acts that brought about these deaths.

This terrible event is a reminder of the sacrifice and bravery of the men and women who serve in our national police force, and of the dangerous circumstances which they often confront, in order to make Canada a safer place.

On behalf of the Government of Canada, I would like to express my condolences to the families of the officers who were killed as they carried out their duty in enforcing the law and protecting the public.

At this moment of difficulty and loss, you are in our thoughts and prayers.”