Swissair Memorial Recommendation Approved

Three locations will form a memorial to remember the victims of Swissair Flight 111 and to recognize the co-operative efforts of Nova Scotians in the aftermath of the crash.

Premier Russell MacLellan has approved a recommendation to establish the memorial at the Whalesback, an area about 500 metres west of Peggy's Cove on the east side of St. Margarets Bay, and at Bayswater on the bay's west side. The actual crash site about 11 kilometres off Peggy's Cove will also be designated as a special place.

In a statement to the legislature today, Premier MacLellan stressed the importance of a memorial to those who died and also to honour the people of Nova Scotia who helped out in the days and weeks after the crash Sept. 2, 1998.

"This memorial will represent the special relationship that the people of Nova Scotia have with the victims' families and with each other because of the tragedy," said Premier MacLellan. "We hope it will offer a place of comfort for all who were touched by the tragedy, a place to remember the effort of the people of our province, and a place to reflect on the value of life."

Former chief justice Lorne Clarke, chair of the Flight 111 Memorial Advisory Committee, recommended the sites after consulting with families of the victims, the people of the St. Margarets Bay area, and others from across Nova Scotia and Canada. He thanked those who offered suggestions to the committee and said he was touched by the heartfelt response from all who contributed.

"Many people came forward with ideas for location and design that were well researched and well thought out," said Mr. Clarke. "I hope the memorial will reflect these ideas and gives people some degree of comfort."

The Memorial Advisory Committee was also asked to determine how unidentifiable remains of victims should be interred. The committee expects to make a decision within a few weeks.

Premier MacLellan also announced a memorial service for the victims of Flight 111 will take place on Sept. 2, the anniversary of the crash. Details of the service are being planned.

The next step for the Memorial Advisory Committee is to determine the design of the memorial. A request for proposal will be issued next week.