December 20, 2005

“The death of Mark Bourque, yesterday in Port-au-Prince, was a dreadful shock to my husband, Jean-Daniel Lafond, and me, particularly since we had met Mr. Bourque at Rideau Hall just last October. He was here with twenty or so of his colleagues from the Royal Canadian Mounted Police just before leaving for Haiti. Like all his colleagues, Mark Bourque was very proud to be a member of the special contingent tasked with helping the United Nations Stabilization Mission in Haiti, MINUSTAH. That Mark Bourque was a retired RCMP officer is indicative of his commitment. With a great deal of optimism, he told us of his deep attachment to the Haitian people and expressed his desire to support the democratic and electoral process.

He did, however, inform us that the renewed violence in Port-au-Prince and the increase in the number of armed gangs were among his central concerns. He also found it extremely regrettable that the civilian population should be subject to so much insecurity. Now, the bullets of a hidden gunman have cruelly taken the life of a man of exemplary conduct and commitment.

We offer our heartfelt condolences to the family of Mark Bourque and to his colleagues and friends. May the support of their loved ones and the tributes received from Canadians bring them the comfort they need in their time of sorrow.

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Media information
Lucie Brosseau
Rideau Hall Press Office
(613) 998-0287
www.gg.ca