The Honourable Dr. Andrew Furey, Premier of Newfoundland and Labrador, and the Honourable Andrew Parsons, KC, Minister of Industry, Energy and Technology, today provided the following statement regarding the 15th anniversary of the Cougar Flight 491 crash:

“March 12 marks a painful day in Newfoundland and Labrador, a day that most of us can remember exactly where we were when we heard of the tragedy off our shores. Fifteen years ago, Cougar Flight 491 crashed into the frigid North Atlantic Ocean, leaving one survivor and resulting in the devastating loss of 15 passengers and two crew members. We offer our deepest sympathies to their families and all those who knew and cherished them.

Their presence is deeply missed, and their absence has left an irreplaceable void in the lives of their families, friends, colleagues and the province as a whole. May their spirits continue to inspire unity, strength, and resilience among us as we treasure their memory.

This day is also a reminder of the historical dangers associated with working on the ocean. The Provincial Government, along with our partners in the offshore, continue to work together to ensure safety remains a top priority and provide the safest working conditions possible for those that work in harsh and challenging conditions.

Their legacy remains in our hearts and their memory serves as a reminder of the importance of safety and vigilance in every journey.”

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