August 22, 2011 - Premier Floyd Roland made two official statements at the beginning of this afternoon’s session of the Legislative Assembly regarding the tragic events in Resolute Bay this weekend and the passing of Jack Layton.

Mr. Speaker, on behalf of this 16th Assembly, our Government and all residents of the Northwest Territories I offer condolences today to those individuals and families who are mourning the loss of colleagues, friends, relatives and loved ones as a result of this weekend’s tragic crash of First Air Flight 6560 near Resolute Bay.

Despite the vast distances that separate us, we - as northerners – are a tightly knit community and the impacts of this tragedy extend well beyond the boundaries of our northern territories to touch us all. Our lives and communities will be forever changed.

Yet in the midst of this horrific event, we also recognize the miracle of those lives that were spared – acknowledging the contributions and quick response of military personnel and volunteers who were pressed into action unexpectedly and under very trying circumstances. We thank them today for their call to duty and their service this weekend.

Mr. Speaker, our North can be harsh and unforgiving. But in this unpredictable environment we are reliant on the northern airline industry and the men and women that use it daily to deliver and provide the essential goods and services on which our communities and our people count on.

Despite the events of this weekend, these individuals will be at work again today – no doubt with heavy hearts and minds.

Today in particular, our thoughts and prayers are with them – especially those in the First Air Family – ever mindful of their loss and with a renewed sense of appreciation and gratitude for their work and commitment that benefits us all.

Mr. Speaker, even as we try to come to terms with the tragedy that unfolded in our Territory over the weekend, we were faced this morning by more sad news – the untimely passing of the Honourable Jack Layton, who until his recent leave of absence led Canada’s New Democratic Party and the Official Opposition in our federal parliament.

Mr. Layton’s political accomplishments, particularly during the most recent federal election, are well known and documented for all Canadians. He will be remembered, in large part, for changing the political landscape of our country and for his trademark spirit of optimism and hope.

His political career from the time he was first elected to municipal office to his time on Parliament Hill was built on the corner stone of strong ethics and hard work. “Smiling Jack” personified those traits that we as Northerners like to profess as our own. He was a people’s leader – a fighter for social justice, seemingly resilient in the face of challenge.

His close ties and friendships in our Territory reflected his fondness for our North and its people.
He enjoyed our community events – not wearing a suit but in working man’s attire: jeans, no tie and his shirt rolled up at the sleeves.

In the coming days and months, Jack Layton will be heralded for his political accomplishments and hard work. More importantly he will be remembered through the years as a great Canadian – missed by his many colleagues, friends and loved ones.

Thank You, Mr. Speaker.