Mr. Speaker, the R.C.M.P. investigation of the tragic deaths at the Giant Mine is continuing as quickly and efficiently as possible. In addition to the internal police resources available in the territories, three teams from outside the territories are involved.

An explosives demolition unit from Alberta is attempting to satisfy that no other unexploded devices pose an immediate hazard. A post-blast team from Ottawa is examining the site of the explosion and deaths to determine the cause. As you know, they have already determined that the explosion came from the side of the track and not from within, or on the tram itself.

As well, a major crime investigation unit from Alberta is in place to assist with the collection and management of the mass information involved. The nature of the crime, and the difficult physical environment, require this kind of experience and technical resource.

As you can appreciate, the criminal investigation is, quite appropriately, being given the highest priority by the R.C.M.P., with the full support and participation of the offices and staff of the chief coroner and the chief mine inspector.

I am not able to tell you, at this point, whether the criminal investigation is likely to lead to an early resolution, or whether a more lengthy process is in store for us. The best we can do is urge all segments of our community to come forward to the R.C.M.P. with any information which could provide answers to the question we are all asking.

In the event that the criminal investigation results in the arrest of one or more persons allegedly responsible for the explosion and deaths, the federal Department of Justice will be the authority in charge of any prosecution that may result. At that point, the R.C.M.P.'s role would be to take direction from, and provide assistance, to the federal Justice prosecutors and to provide timely information to me.

I should also describe the role of the chief coroner, and the local coroner she has assigned to this case. The chief coroner is obliged to investigate any death arising from accident, negligence or violence. In this case, the chief coroner has arranged for a forensic pathologist from Edmonton to attend and assist.

The chief coroner has access to police reports relevant to the deaths, and may call upon the assistance of police officers in the conduct of her statutory investigations. In the current case, the lines of communication are straightforward and part of a recognized protocol.

The discussion of a public coroner's inquest into these deaths is premature, but some general comments can be made. The Coroner's Act gives precedence to a criminal investigation. It provides that a coroner shall generally delay any inquest where it is likely a person will be charged with a criminal offence arising from a death. In any event, a person charged may not be compelled to give evidence before an inquest, unless any criminal proceedings have been concluded. This is consistent with the constitutional requirement to provide a fair trial for an accused, but also with the public's right to have criminal activity brought to justice in a timely way, not impaired by technical objections to a fair trial.

As information becomes available, Mr. Speaker, the R.C.M.P. will brief me, provide timely information to the families of the deceased, and the public.

Thank you.