Senator Rose-May Poirier

New Brunswick

Commemoration of Tragedy in Moncton

Hon. Rose-May Poirier: Honourable senators, for the people of the Greater Moncton Area, June 4 will forever be remembered as a day of sadness and grief since the unthinkable happened for this peaceful and loving community. A year has passed since a young man jeopardized the security of the whole community for two days, which made Moncton lose a little bit of its innocence. Most tragically, the community lost three of its finest citizens who devoted their lives to ensuring the security of their neighbours.

For small communities with a low rate of violence, we sometimes innocently take for granted the comfort of security. It is in these crises and tragedies that we realize the enormous sacrifices made by these officers and their families. To all fallen, past and current members of all the law enforcement forces in Canada, you have our utmost gratitude, respect and support for the remarkable work that you do in keeping our lives safe.

Honourable senators, in the wake of the tragedy, the community of Moncton was shaken up. It was tested. But it also showed its strong will to not give up and to move forward. The outpouring of generosity for the victims' families, the many projects to commemorate the victims, and how everybody came together in these hardships show how vibrant and spirited the citizens of Moncton are. Today is a hard day for them, but, to the people of Moncton, you are not alone on this sad day.

Honourable senators please join me in honouring the victims and their families. To the families and friends of Constables David Ross, Fabrice Gevaudan and Douglas Larche, as well as the two injured officers, Constables Eric Dubois and Darlene Goguen, the sacrifice made and your losses will not be forgotten. You are in our thoughts and prayers for always.

Thank you, honourable senators.