No. H 038/09
For release - March 12, 2009
OTTAWA — Canada's Transport Minister, John Baird, today released the following statement concerning the tragic incident off the east coast of Newfoundland. The helicopter, operated by Cougar Helicopters of St. John's and carrying 18 workers, experienced mechanical problems and ditched in the Atlantic Ocean.
"On behalf of the Government of Canada, I would like to say that our thoughts are with the families and friends of the people involved in this tragic incident.
"Investigators with the Transportation Safety Board of Canada are on site. A Minister's Observer will keep me informed of the investigation's progress.
"The Department will also verify that Cougar Helicopters Inc. continues to comply with all aspects of the Canadian Aviation Regulations and the conditions of its air operator certificate.
"Any safety deficiencies identified through the Transportation Safety Board of Canada's investigation or through Transport Canada's inspections will be addressed immediately.
"Everyone at Transport Canada will continue to work hard to keep Canada's transportation system safe and secure. Today's sad event reminds us of the need to keep working to do all we can to further enhance the safety of Canadian aviation."
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