Mahsi, Mr. Speaker. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to also speak about the tragic accident that occurred on the evening of Monday, October 15th, near Fort Liard.
Mr. Speaker, the plane crash occurred upon this plane returning from Yellowknife. The people on board were the official representatives of the Acho Dene Band Council at Fort Liard. They were on official business representing their community at a signing of an MOU between the Aboriginal Peoples Pipeline Group and the Delta Gas Producers Group.
Mr. Speaker, respected elder, former chief and councillor, and a friend of mine, Daniel Lomen, 61 years old, passed away in this crash.
I remember Mr. Lomen back in the early 70's when I was involved in the Dene Nation and in the creation of the Dene Nation. He was one of the founding chiefs of this Dene Nation. He has been involved in the service to his people since that time, over 30 years. He has always been committed in supporting the economic development and training of his people. His support at the signing was an indication that he still supported this initiative.
Band Manager Sally Bertrand was only 33 years old. She was band manger for nine years. Being in my constituency, every time I called the band office, she was there to answer in her cheerful and laughing voice. She leaves behind her husband Eric and three young children. It is a sad loss to the community, as a mother, as a father, as a representative and worker for the band council.
I would like to express my sincere sympathy and condolences to Daniel's wife and children, and Sally's husband, Eric Bertrand, and Sally's parents, Corrine Timbre and Sam Timbre, as well as my condolences to Kim Deneron, the fiancée of Sean Toner, and one of the persons that was on board that was seriously injured. I would like to say that Kim is recovering in the hospital in Edmonton after having a head injury and a broken leg.
It is a miracle that Stanley Bertrand, the elder that was also on board, survived the crash. He has a lot of bumps and bruises but he is back in his community as of yesterday. It is good that we have some good news out of this tragic event. Thank you, Mr. Speaker.