Commemoration of the Lac-Mégantic Tragedy

It was a very emotional weekend for all the people in Lac-Mégantic.

"Today, I am presenting the Commendation for Outstanding Service to the first responders and citizens of Lac-Mégantic and the surrounding communities, as a way of recognizing their extraordinary efforts and exceptional kindness and caring," said His Excellency as he was presenting the Commendation to Mayor Colette Roy-Laroche.

"Lac-Mégantic may be a small place, but you’ve shown what a mighty heart and fierce will it has to move forward."

The Governor General took part in a recognition ceremony for the first responders.

A minute of silence was asked to pay respect to the victims.

Hundreds of people also gathered outside the church during mass.

Giant screens were placed outside so that everybody could see the ceremony.

Dignitaries joined hundreds of citizens of Lac-Mégantic at Sainte-Agnès Catholic Church.

Their Excellencies first attended a memorial mass at Sainte-Agnès Catholic Church. Prime Minister of Quebec Philippe Couillard, Lieutenant-Governor of Quebec Pierre Duchesne, and Federal Minister of International Development and Minister for La Francophonie and MP for Mégantic-L'Érable Christian Paradis also attended the event.

The tragedy took the lives of 47 people.

Their Excellencies visited Lac-Mégantic on Sunday, July 6, 2014, to take part in a commemoration of the tragedy that took place in the town on July 6, 2013.

Following the mass, a new monument was unveiled in front of the church to pay tribute to the 47 people who were killed in the disaster.

On July 6, 2013, a tragedy hit the ville de Lac-Mégantic (Quebec). This photo was taken a year later.