Sask. legislature honours victims of Humboldt Broncos tragedy

The proceedings at the Saskatchewan Legislature began with a moment of silence Monday for those who lost their lives in the Humboldt Broncos bus crash.

MLAs from across the province spoke and expressed sorrow and gratitude.

Riding on a bus to a sporting event is a “prairie rite of passage,” Premier Scott Moe told the legislature as he opened the Motion of Condolence. All usual proceedings had been cancelled so the tragedy could be acknowledged.

“On behalf of a very grateful province I would extend to all of those individuals the most sincere thank you,” Moe said as he addressed all of the people who have stepped up and helped through time, effort or financial donations.

Outside the Legislature this morning. Play in heaven boys. pic.twitter.com/ekrNFgb2VU

— Sarah Mills (@smillsSK) April 9, 2018

One by one each MLA who spoke relayed memories of times playing hockey or travelling with friends on a bus or, in some cases, knowing first-hand what it means to lose a child.

“It is a long road ahead and please know you are not alone,” Saskatoon NDP MLA Danielle Chartier said through tears.

Carrot River MLA Fred Bradshaw welled up as he relayed the story of bus driver Glen Doerkson. Doerkson’s son gets married this summer and now won’t have his father by his side.

Swift Current MLA Everett Hindley reminded the legislature of the tragedy that hit his city in 1986 when four players lost their lives in a bus crash.

“From one Broncos team to another, may God give you strength,” Hindley said.

The only empty seat belonged to Humboldt MLA Donna Harpauer. She must deliver a budget Tuesday with the weight of her community’s tragedy on her shoulders.

She will speak to the tragedy in her opening remarks when she rises at 1:30 p.m.

All the MLAs were wearing ribbons in green and yellow as a mark of respect and many, including the premier, wore t-shirts under their blazers emblazoned with the words “We Are Humboldt Strong.”

There is a book of condolences is available for people to sign at the at the legislature.

A Book of Condolence was placed at the Legislature on April 9, 2018. (Sarah Mills/980 CJME)