Canadian diplomat dies in Afghanistan

A Canadian diplomat died today after a convoy was attacked by a suicide car bomber in Kandahar, Afghanistan.

Dead is Glyn Berry, a political director with the federal Deparment of Foreign Afaairs.

Suffering "very serious injuries" were Private William Edward Salikin, Corporal Jeffrey Bailey and Master Corporal Paul Franklin.

The bomb reportedly blasted the armoured vehicle off the side of the road.

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The following statement was issued this afternoon in Sault Ste. Marie by federal NDP Leader Jack Layton:

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Statement by NDP leader Jack Layton on the death of a Canadian civilian and the injury of three Canadian soldiers in Afghanistan today

SAULT STE MARIE, ONTARIO - "It was with great sadness that we learned this morning of the death of Glyn Berry, an employee of Foreign Affairs Canada, and the injury of three Canadian soldiers, Master Corporal Paul Franklin, Corporal Jeffrey Bailey, and Private William Salikin. All four were serving our country in Afghanistan.

"The terrible news of this attack on Canadian personnel serves to remind us all of the grave danger that so many Canadians representing our country abroad face each and every day. It is with courage and honour that they put their lives on the line to serve our country, and to further the pursuit of peace, justice and democracy around the world. For their service and sacrifice we are deeply grateful.

"On behalf of all New Democrats, Olivia and I extend our deepest condolences to the family, friends, and Foreign Affairs Canada colleagues of Glyn Berry. Also in our thoughts and prayers are the soldiers who have been injured, their loved ones here at home and all members of the Canadian Forces."