Statement by the Prime Minister on the 20th anniversary of the Chernobyl Disaster

Prime Minister Stephen Harper today issued the following statement on the 20th anniversary of the disaster at Chernobyl, Ukraine:

"Today, I speak on behalf of all Canadians in expressing our support and friendship for the people of Ukraine and of its neighbouring countries, who continue to suffer the tragic consequences of the disaster at the Chernobyl nuclear station. The international community must continue to work together to ensure that a tragedy such as this never happens again.

"Canadians will not forget what happened 20 years ago on this day in Chernobyl, nor those whose health and livelihoods were so dramatically altered by the disaster. Yesterday, Canada announced an $8 million contribution, bringing our total commitment for Chernobyl-related projects to $66.2 million.

"I also wish to acknowledge all those Canadian families who have opened their hearts and their homes to bring relief to the children affected by the Chernobyl disaster. Canada will continue to support efforts in the affected region to mitigate the consequences resulting from the damaged reactor, and to help the individual victims of this tragedy and their families."