The Honourable Rob Nicholson, P.C., Q.C., M.P. for Niagara Falls and Minister of National Defence, issued the following statement today regarding the 40th anniversary of the 1974 grenade accident at the Cadet Summer Training Centre at Canadian Forces Base Valcartier:
“Forty years ago today, an accidental grenade explosion at a Cadet Summer Training Centre in Valcartier killed six cadets and wounded dozens more. This incident remains a tragedy that has not been forgotten. This is why the Government of Canada is facilitating an investigation by the Ombudsman for the Department of National Defence and Canadian Armed Forces into this horrible event.
On behalf of the Government of Canada, I extend sincere condolences to the victims and families who are still affected by this horrific accident. Even after 40 years, I know that many of the witnesses of this tragic event have painful memories of this day. It is my sincere hope that the memorial ceremony held today in Valcartier will give them some measure of comfort.”
