Statement

From the Prime Minister's Web Site (http://www.pm.gc.ca/)

---

STATEMENT BY THE PRIME MINISTER OF CANADA ON THE DEATH OF A CANADIAN SOLDIER IN AFGHANISTAN

December 30, 2007
Ottawa, Ontario

Prime Minister Stephen Harper issued the following statement today on the death of a Canadian soldier and the wounding of four others in Afghanistan:

"I am deeply saddened by the loss of Gunner Jonathan Dion, who was killed today in Afghanistan. I would like to extend my deepest condolences to his family and friends during this very difficult time. I also wish a speedy recovery to the four other soldiers injured in this incident.

These brave Canadian soldiers were helping bring hope to a population that has seen much hardship. We will not forget the sacrifice made by Gunner Dion while working to make life better for others.

Canada is in Afghanistan as part of a UN-sanctioned mission to help build a stable, democratic, and self-sufficient society. Reconstruction and development in Afghanistan cannot occur in an unstable environment. These Canadian soldiers were working to provide security and help create the conditions needed to improve the lives of the people of Afghanistan."

Gunner Jonathan Dion was a member of the 5th Régiment d'artillerie légère du Canada, based in Valcartier, Québec.

---

The Prime Minister's Office - Communications
[Note: You are receiving this e-mail for information only, and because you have subscribed to our distribution list. To modify your subscription or to have your name removed from the list, go to: (http://www.pm.gc.ca/eng/subscribe.asp?login)]