May 21, 2008 - The Honourable Stockwell Day, Minister of Public Safety today expressed his deep sadness towards the human suffering caused by the recent earthquake that struck China's Sichuan province. Minister Day conveyed his sincere regret while signing a book of condolence at the Chinese Consulate General in Vancouver.
"The human tragedy that is unfolding in the wake of the recent earthquake is a disaster of unfathomable proportions.
We grieve for the lives lost. We offer our sincere sympathies and condolences to friends and families of all those affected by the disaster. Our thoughts and prayers are for a swift recovery to all those who were injured in and affected by the earthquake.
We commend the efforts of all those who are now providing assistance in one form or another. For our part, Canada has provided a C$1 million contribution in response to the emergency appeal of the International Federation of the Red Cross. As well, my colleague the Minister of International Cooperation Beverley Oda announced last week a matching funds initiative. Under this program, the Government of Canada will match individual donations to humanitarian organizations."
Information:
Mélisa Leclerc
Director of Communications
Office of the Honourable Stockwell Day
Minister of Public Safety
613-991-2863
