Saskiw and Smith offer support to St. Paul in wake of tragic events

ST. PAUL, ALBERTA (October 26, 2012): Today, Lac La Biche – St. Paul – Two Hills MLA Shayne Saskiw offered his support in the wake of tragic events in St. Paul, where a vehicle drove through the wall of Racette School and resulted in the death of one student and several injuries.

“My deepest condolences and prayers go to the family impacted by their loss today. My thoughts go out to the students, teachers, parents, the school board and first responders who have been affected by this tragic event, as well as the students still receiving treatment in Edmonton and the students who received treatment and were released yesterday,” Saskiw said. “The response of the first responders, RCMP, teachers and the St. Paul Education Regional Division No. 1 school board has been tremendous.”

“When parents send their kids off to school in the morning, they don’t expect something like this to happen. I encourage those who can to attend the prayer vigil being held in St. Paul today at 5 p.m. at the old Glen Avon school.”

Saskiw flew to St. Paul with Minister of Education Jeff Johnson and Minister of Infrastructure Wayne Drysdale yesterday afternoon upon hearing the news. “I thank Minister Johnson and Minister Drysdale for showing their support for the community in this difficult time, and Premier Alison Redford for her attention to the situation,” Saskiw said.

Wildrose Official Opposition Leader Danielle Smith offered her support for the community of St. Paul and the affected families and students.

“Our hearts go out to the family dealing with the loss of a loved one today and all families affected by this senseless tragedy ,” Smith said. “Parents send their children to school in the morning and always expect they’ll come back safely. We hope the injured students continue to receive the necessary medical treatment.”

Racette School is currently housed in the old Glen Avon school while renovations are completed at the Racette location. Organizers advised people attending the vigil to dress warm and bring a candle.