STATEMENT BY THE PRIME MINISTER

January 20, 2003
Ottawa, Ontario

Prime Minister Jean Chrétien issued the following statement following the news of a fatal avalanche in British Columbia:

"It is with great sadness that I learned of the tragic loss of life following an avalanche on the Durrand glacier in the Selkirk mountains of British Columbia. Our thoughts and prayers are with the victims' families during this very painful time. We wish a speedy and complete recovery for the injured.

Aline joins me in expressing our most sincere condolences to the victims' families. We also extend our warmest thanks to the rescue crews at the scene who were able to save many lives and prevent further tragedy."

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