The tragedy in Bathurst

All Canadians were saddened at the tragic deaths of seven high school students and one adult in Bathurst, New Brunswick, one of whom was Daniel Hains, son of CEIU member Isabelle Hains. CEIU extends its sympathies to the relatives and friends of all who were lost.

Local 60269 (Bathurst) President Stanley Theriault extended, on behalf of his members, condolences to Isabelle and her family: “All of us express our deepest sympathies, and we will support you in every way we can.” He continued by saying, “Bathurst is a small community and many were close to those who died. I want to convey our sympathies to everyone who was touched by this loss.” Theriault also expressed his thanks to Service Canada management who provided the time and support needed by his members during an extremely difficult period.

National President Jeannette Meunier-McKay called the accident a heartbreaking experience for family, friends, the community and the country. “The loss of the young shakes us deeply and I offer my condolences to Isabelle and her family, and to all who suffered the loss of those dear to them.”

A trust fund has been established to create bursaries in the names of the students who were lost. Donations can be made at any branch of the CIBC (Trust fund: “Boys in Red”; transit number 742220032). Donations can also be made through the Bank of Nova Scotia (trust account “BHS Tragedy Fund”) that will be forwarded to the “Boys in Red” fund at the CIBC. Both Local 60269 and the national office of CEIU have made a donation of $250.