First, thank you to my colleague for sharing and giving me his spot to make a statement today. I’m very grateful.

Honourable senators, I rise today with a very sad heart to mourn the loss of five promising young lives on Friday, May 23 in a tragic traffic accident near Dorchester, Ontario, outside of London. All five were from the small community of Walkerton, Ontario, which is about an hour and a half from my home in southwestern Ontario. As with any small community, it’s hard to find a person not touched by grief through such a horrible event.

Those lost were Mat Eckert, beloved teacher and coach, and students Olivia Rourke, Rowan McLeod, Kaydance Ford and Danica Baker, each an incredible individual attending Walkerton District Community School. The loss of one life in a small community is devastating; this is incomprehensible.

Coach Eckert, just 33, was loved by his school community, his students and the lacrosse team he coached in Owen Sound. He was also well-known for capturing the interest of his students in the classroom.

Olivia, aged 17, was described by her family as “a light in our lives – full of kindness, laughter, dance, song and love.”

Rowan, aged 17, was described as bringing energy, compassion and dedication to children’s programming in her after-school work, which supported many local families.

Kaydance, aged 16, was described by her family as an immensely adored daughter and a proud and loving big sister who excelled in athletics and the shop programs at her school.

And Danica, also 16, was said to have a spirit that “. . . lit up every room and every volleyball court she stepped on to.”

All continue to be described as great students and great siblings — young girls with character and commitment to their community.

The response from the community and country has been overwhelming. As Prime Minister Carney noted, this is an “unimaginable loss that no family, no classmate, no school should ever have to endure.”

Canadians are holding the Walkerton community in their hearts. On Saturday morning, on a cold and windy day, I made my way to Walkerton to pay tribute. As I laid flowers and running shoes at a memorial service on Saturday — which we were invited to do — I felt the overwhelming impact of this tragic event and the long healing process that will be different for each person. I know through my experience with similar events as an educator and superintendent that healing will take a very long time, not only for family and friends, but for the community as a whole, particularly those young students at Walkerton District Community School.

In a small community, the high school is a hub. Families, students, teachers and administration are all grieving while trying to return to calm and a sense of normalcy. Student learning will take a back seat and all will be grateful to see the end of June, typically a time of celebration.

The shock, denial and anger will move through each individual at a different pace. These students’ age, this stage of life, this time of year — the loss of five is more than one can endure. Over time, those leading this critical event must get their own support.

Colleagues, please join me in acknowledging this tragic loss, these five lives and the healing journey that will continue. Thank you.