A Statement by Prime Minister Jean Chrétien to the House of Commons Concerning Canadian Casualties in Afghanistan

April 18, 2002
Ottawa, Ontario

Yesterday, the House marked the celebration of 20 years of our Canadian Charter of Rights and Freedoms. Last night, our nation was reminded of the precious cost that comes with the standing up for the rights and freedoms that we hold so dear.

We learned that 4 Canadian soldiers of Princess Patricia’s Light Infantry had been killed and 8 others wounded in an awful accident that occurred during a live fire exercise near Kandahar in Afghanistan. While we still do not know all the facts, it is clear that these casualties were inflicted by friendly fire from an American fighter jet.

Upon learning this terrible news, President George Bush called me to express his great sadness. And, above all, to offer the deepest regret and sympathy to the families of our killed and wounded.

Mr. Speaker, at times like these, we grasp for words of comfort and consolation. But they are just words. They can never do justice to the pain and loss that is being felt this morning in Edmonton by mothers and fathers, wives and children. Who have received the worst news we can imagine. All we have in our power today is to tell them, as a nation, that they are in our thoughts and prayers.

The campaign against terrorism is the first great global struggle for justice of the 21st century. And as in all such conflicts of the past Canada has been on the front lines. The Canadian Armed Forces has set itself apart with valour, daring and skill.

And if words cannot console this loss, Mr. Speaker, they also cannot fully full express the pride that all Canadians have felt at the exemplary way in which they have carried out their duty.

We have so many questions this morning. Extensive training for combat is meant to save lives. How is it that in this awful case it took so many lives?

And I want to assure the families, and the people of Canada, that these questions will be answered. Indeed, President Bush has pledged the full cooperation of the Americans with us in the investigation that is already under way.

But for this moment, Mr. Speaker, we must give over our hearts and prayers to the loved and the lost. And to the families to whom our nation owes a debt of gratitude that is beyond mortal calculation.

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