News Release

Uteck Extends Thanks to Public, HRM Fire/Police and Volunteer Groups

(Friday, August 8/2003)-- District 13 Councillor Sue Uteck today extended her thanks to members of all of the public and volunteer services and agencies involved in the aftermath of the fire and explosion at the Halifax grain elevator on Thursday.

Councillor Uteck also extended her thanks to the residents of south end Halifax for their patience and understanding throughout the ordeal, particularly those who were forced to evacuate their homes for up to nine hours.

Councillor Uteck said " I would like to thank the scores of people involved, especially to HRM firefighters and Acting Chief Bruce Burrell. From Fire Services to Halifax Regional Police and RCMP, from the Red Cross and Community Services, to Saint Mary's University, we are truly grateful to everyone who provided assistance. I also want to thank the representative from the Halifax Grain Elevator company."

" I have made a commitment to the community that when the investigation is over and the cause of the explosion and fire is determined, we will have a community meeting to discuss a better working relationship with the operators of the grain elevator and the surrounding neighbourhood. While the community is concerned, we recognize our relationship with our neighbours and we are aiming for more open communication with the operators and greater understanding of the grain elevator and its operations, " she said.

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Councillor Sue Uteck
(902) 221-7651