Thank you, Mr. Speaker. I rise today to salute the exemplary service of the Yellowknife unit of the Canadian Coast Guard Auxiliary, and to thank the volunteers for their continuing contributions to boat safety on our waters.
The Yellowknife command of the Canadian Coast Guard provides marine search and emergency rescue on the north half of Great Slave Lake. The Yellowknife CCGA operates the search and rescue vessels Nick Martin and Diavik Discovery, and collaborates closely with the RCMP in emergency response. Federal funding transfers cover the organization's rescue costs, while local fundraising meets the costs of its extensive training programs.
The unit makes emergency prevention a priority by promoting safe boating to the public at local and regional boat and trade shows. The unit also supports "on the water" community events, such as the Abilities Cup sailboat race, the Commissioner's Cup race, and the Float Plane Fly-In.
Marine rescue services were put to the test again recently for a medical emergency on the big lake. On a cold and blustery morning in July, a call for help went out from the sailing vessel Yola, when its skipper fell gravely ill. Coast Guard Auxiliary responders responded to the distress call, providing the skipper with medical assistance. They relieved the crew, and towed the Yola to safety, where an ambulance was waiting. Unfortunately, Yola's skipper, George Diveky, passed away after being evacuated to medical care, but it was the fast action of the Coast Guard Auxiliary that gave George a chance, and brought the crew and vessel to safety. Yesterday the community of sailors and others remembered him at a wonderful service.
Thanks go out to the crew of the Diavik Discovery, coxswain and liaison Mark Hilman, to Darren and Sharron Sutton, Dawn Keim and medic Kristjan Goodman as well as Zodiac crew Jack Keefe, Alison Gillis, and Robert Anderson. The family were grateful to have Yola and her dinghy towed safely and secured to her mooring, and we all support the unhesitating and professional help of these volunteers.
Please join me in honouring the exceptional public service of the Yellowknife unit of the Canadian Coast Guard Auxiliary. Mahsi.