Statement by the Prime Minister

March 2, 2000
Ottawa, Ontario 

Prime Minister Jean Chrétien today expressed his sadness at the news of the death of Sandra Schmirler: 

"All Canadians have been touched by the untimely death of Sandra Schmirler. Most of us came to know of her through her exploits as a champion curler and as an exemplary sports ambassador for Canada. But what really set her apart was her bright, engaging personality and her incredible zest for life; qualities that were so clearly in evidence as she fought so valiantly against her illness. She will be sorely missed. 

Of course, our thoughts and prayers at this time are - first and foremost - with her young family: her husband Shannon and her two daughters, Jenna and Sara. We - her admirers - can only imagine the grief that they are suffering at this time. Aline joins me in extending our deepest sympathies to them, and to Sandra Schmirler's many many friends."