Mayor McDonald delivers message of support to residents of Elliot Lake

City of North Bay
News Release

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Mayor Al McDonald travelled to the Town of Elliot Lake to make a presentation to Elliot Lake’s Members of Council at their regular Council meeting held Tuesday, July 10th, 2012.

This presentation was made by Mayor McDonald on behalf of North Bay City Council and the citizens of the North Bay community to convey a message of support to the residents of Elliot Lake. He presented a book of condolences signed by many North Bay citizens.

“I present this book in the spirit of reaching out, in letting you know that we care and feel for your community,” stated Mayor McDonald. “The sorrow your community feels is felt throughout Northern Ontario.”

Mayor McDonald concluded his presentation by extending good wishes and a strong hope that their community will continue to move forward from this tragic incident and that, those lost, will always be remembered.

His speech is below:

"Good Evening your Worship and members of Council

I am here tonight representing the citizens of North Bay and to convey a message of support to the residents of Elliot Lake. We watched from a distance, feeling a sense of helplessness and wanting to assist in any way we could as this tragedy unfolded. As northerners, we wanted to reach out to you and let you know that you were not alone as you grieved those that were lost. Our thoughts and prayers go out to the families and friends of the loved ones who are no longer with us. To the residents of Elliot Lake, we stand with you in these days of mourning. Words alone cannot convey our sadness. These are difficult times but please know that I have heard from many of our residents – with an outpouring of love and support for your community and families. The healing process will take time, the emotions will run high but it is a time for your community to come together and for fellow northerners to reach out. Our citizens are reaching out to you; to comfort you as best we can; and, to send a message of hope and a spirit of friendship.

I would like to present a condolence book to you on behalf of our citizens, signed by many. I present this book in the spirit of reaching out, in letting you know that we care and feel for your community. The sorrow your community feels is felt throughout Northern Ontario. I would like to read a few passages from the book to share the thoughts our citizens wanted you to know:
“We wish you strength and patience as you move forward together as a community from this terrible tragedy.” Signed Chris

“Born and raised in Elliot Lake, I know the love and strength within this small City. My heartfelt condolences to the families of the victims, the community and all Elliot “lakers.” Elliot lake will always hold a piece of my heart.” Signed Brandy

“The beauty of living in a Northern Ontario town is that the community looks after each other in times of sorrow and loss. From our community to yours, please accept our sincere condolences.” Signed Heather

“I’m thinking about my hometown every day. Stay strong.” Victoria

One resident dropped off new books to my office and wanted me to deliver them to you knowing the library was lost. This is a symbol of caring. Our employees held a dress casual day with all the proceeds going to the Elliot Lake Relief Fund.

These small acts of kindness have given the citizens of the North Bay community an opportunity to grieve with you and to express our feelings that we were, and still are, thinking of you, the people of Elliot Lake.

On behalf of myself, members of North Bay City Council, and the citizens of North Bay, I extend good wishes and a strong hope that your community will continue to move forward from this terrible incident and that, those lost, will always be remembered.

Thank you & Good night."

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