Statement by Minister Bernier on the Forest Fires in Greece

News Release

August 28, 2007
No. 119
The Honourable Maxime Bernier, Minister of Foreign Affairs, today issued the following
statement expressing Canada’s support for the people of Greece affected by the forest
fires:
“On behalf of the Government and people of Canada, I wish to express my deepest
condolences and extend my sincerest sympathies to the people of Greece, as well as
all Canadians of Hellenic origin, on the tragic loss of life and devastation as a result of
the fires that continue to rage in Greece.
“Canadian officials have been in contact with Greek authorities since the start of these
tragic fires in late July. In response to an appeal for assistance received yesterday from
the Greek government, our government has identified various firefighting experts and
equipment available to be deployed through the Canadian Interagency Forest Fire
Centre (http://www.ciffc.ca/web/index.shtml).
“This includes land-based air tankers, the Martin Mars air tanker and other water
bomber equipment, as well as trained wildland fire crews.
“Over the years, Canada has supported Greece in the development of its forest
firefighting capacity through the sale of Canadair water bombers and the provision of
expert training.
“Canada is working closely with the Government of Greece to identify how we can best
help meet the needs they have identified and mitigate any further impact of this
devastating situation.”
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For further information, media representatives may contact:
Foreign Affairs Media Relations Office
Foreign Affairs and International Trade Canada
613-995-1874
http://www.international.gc.ca

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Statement by Minister Bernier on the Forest Fires in Greece

News Release

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