Local MPs express condolences for lives lost in Alberta tragedy

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By Lee Griffi

The only positive to come out of tragedy is it can bring people together, even politicians.

Regular business in on Parliament Hill in Ottawa was paused on Monday in the shadow of the fire at Canadian Forces Base Wainwright, east of Edmonton, which occurred at 4 p.m. local time on Saturday. 

Four soldiers died, 39 were wounded and 19 remain in critical condition. The fire was active for several hours before spreading to a training area. Officials were aware of the fire ahead of a hand-grenade training exercise, but officials say the wind quickly shifted the blaze, moving it a kilometre within 30 to 60 seconds.

A sombre Kitchener-Conestoga MP Tim Louis spoke to the Gazette on Monday morning.

“It’s a tragic loss of life; four young Canadian Armed Forces members serving their country during live-fire exercises. The fire spread quickly, and 39 others were injured. Our nation stands behind them.”

Each party leader spoke in the House of Commons on Monday morning as all political stripes stood together to mourn the loss of life.

“Everybody rose and acknowledged each leader’s speech. This was not about partisanship, and it was mentioned multiple times that in a few weeks we will be commemorating Remembrance Day to remember lives lost in defending the country,” Louis said.

The House leaders from each party met early Monday morning and agreed it would be inappropriate to continue with the business of the day, including Question Period. The House was suspended for the rest of the day aside from some committee meetings.

Oxford MP Arpan Khanna said the news was devastating and heartbreaking.

“As the days go by, hearing about the lives we have lost; four young, brave men who put it all on the line to serve our country lost their lives, and 39 others were injured. It breaks your heart thinking of them and what they are going through.”

Canadian military reports said many of the injured sustained burns to 75 per cent of their bodies.

“That pain, those scars will last more than just a few days. They will last a lifetime, and I think it’s a reminder to all of us to stand with our veterans. On the positive side, this is a story of communities, firefighters, paramedics, hospitals, nurses and doctors showing that Team Canada spirit.”

The tragedy took place in Pierre Poilievre’s riding in Alberta and the Conservative Party leader met one of the victims at a local Canada Day celebration.

“He took the first flight out of Ottawa to go back to his community. He mentioned during a remote speech in Parliament how these young soldiers had such positive energy, a selfless demeanour and the drive to do something for their country,” Khanna said.

Khanna added while Poilievre is shaken, he’s meeting with as many people as he can to help the community come together.

“That’s the beautiful thing about that community. When there is trouble, they rally together and are there for one another. All Canadians from coast to coast stand with those affected during those tough times.”

He explained this is one of those situations where party lines mean nothing and every member of parliament stands together.

“I shook the prime minister’s hand and met with Liberal colleagues who are obviously affected by what happened. We are all united when it comes to supporting those involved. Partisanship aside, at the end of the day we are all Canadians, this is our home and we must all come together when something like this happens.”