STATEMENT BY PREMIER BRAD WALL ON NIPAWIN EXPLOSION

Premier Brad Wall today issued the following statement on the recent events in Nipawin:

"Today, my wife Tami and I would like to express our deepest condolences to the families and friends of the two individuals who lost their lives in the explosion yesterday in Nipawin. Our thoughts and prayers are with everyone affected by this tragic event, and we are hoping for a full and speedy recovery for those injured in the explosion.

"On behalf of a grateful province, I would also like to say thank you to everyone who responded to the explosion and fire, and whose efforts prevented further loss of life and property. At times of crisis, you really see what Saskatchewan people are made of, and it's pretty amazing.

"From the effective response by the Nipawin, Carrot River and Choiceland Fire Departments which prevented the fire from spreading to surrounding businesses and homes, through to the efforts of the RCMP and local health care providers, to Mayor Glen Day and town officials, to those from the various government agencies who have been working around the clock to ensure public safety and restore services, this has been an outstanding effort. Thank you to everyone in the community who played a part in helping their neighbours - providing a place to stay for those who were evacuated and providing comfort for those who suffered loss.

"I have spoken with Mayor Day and with Corrections, Public Safety and Policing Minister Darryl Hickie who visited the site today, and both have told me about how the community of Nipawin has pulled together to respond to this tragic event. Every possible resource will continue to be made available as the town rebuilds."

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For more information, contact:

Ian Hanna
Executive Council
Regina
Cell: 306-530-3177