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"In every way we stand ready to offer our support to those now grieving." - Warren (Smokey) Thomas, OPSEU President.
Toronto (31 May 2013) – A statement from Ontario Public Service Employees Union (OPSEU/NUPGE) President Warren (Smokey) Thomas:
| Together with all members of the Ontario Public Service Employees Union (OPSEU/NUPGE), I am deeply saddened by the crash of an ORNGE air ambulance helicopter in northern Ontario. The flight left Moosonee on route to Attawapiskat, on the James Bay coast.
While serving the people of Ontario, two pilots and two paramedics lost their lives when their aircraft went down. An investigation is underway to determine the reasons for this tragedy. The victims were members of the Canadian Auto Workers, and our members stand in solidarity with these public servants. Emergency services across the province are the first line of defence and provide assistance when there is a crisis. This noble work is critical to the quality of life we enjoy. I speak for all our members when I say we offer our heartfelt condolences to all those touched by this tragedy. This includes the ground-based staff of ORNGE, represented by OPSEU/NUPGE. In every way we stand ready to offer our support to those now grieving. Warren (Smokey) Thomas |
NUPGE
The National Union of Public and General Employees (NUPGE) is one of Canada's largest labour organizations with over 340,000 members. Our mission is to improve the lives of working families and to build a stronger Canada by ensuring our common wealth is used for the common good. NUPGE