Mr. Speaker, Canadians are concerned when disasters bring hardships to and take the lives of people in regions around the world. I rise today to draw the attention of the House to the Barakova mine disaster which took place last Saturday in the eastern region of the Republic of Ukraine.
The Barakova mine explosion was caused by methane gas mixed with coal. This horrific tragedy is said to be the nation's worst national industrial disaster since its independence in 1991. The disaster claimed the lives of 80 miners, hospitalized many and brought tremendous emotional suffering to families.
I join my constituents in the Ukrainian community and all Canadians in extending my deepest sympathy to the survivors and to the families of those who are now suffering as a result of this disaster.