Statement by the Prime Minister


March 7, 1999
Ottawa, Ontario

Prime Minister Jean Chrétien today expressed his sadness on the news of the sudden death of former Senator William Petten:

"Bill Petten served the people of Newfoundland and Canada with great skill and distinction. Throughout his tenure in the Senate, his obvious ability and dedication earned him the respect of colleagues on all sides of the Chamber, and saw him entrusted with senior Caucus responsibilities. Above all, Bill was a man of great kindness, who's warmth and good humour touched everyone who came to know him. People just naturally liked him.

I consider it a pleasure and a privilege to have worked alongside him - in government and opposition. And I will miss him a lot.

Aline joins me in extending our sincerest condolences to his family and friends."

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