MPs pay tribute to victims of Humboldt bus crash in House of Commons

Members of Parliament have paid tribute to the 16 victims of the Humboldt hockey bus tragedy that happened more than a week ago.

MPs from all parties wore hockey jerseys into the House of Commons and held a moment of silence before Question Period.

Conservative John Brassard was one of many to use their member statements to honour those who lost their lives.

“Hockey is Canada. Canada is hockey. Humboldt is Canada. Humboldt is hockey. This game — this beautiful game — will see the puck drop again in Humboldt. And when it does, all of Canada and indeed, all members of this house, will be cheering for Humboldt and our Broncos.”

Conservative Party Leader Andrew Scheer, who represents the Saskatchewan riding of Regina-Qu’Appelle, said all Canadians have the victims in their thoughts and hearts.

“To the community of Humboldt and to the towns across Canada from which the victims came, just to play the game they love, we say we grieve with you and we will remember you. No matter where you live, no matter how quiet the night seem, no matter how small the town feels, we’re all your neighbours now.”

Saskatchewan Liberal MP and federal Public Safety Minister Ralph Goodale told the House of Commons that it was important to speak in one voice about the tragedy.

“The demonstration of solidarity in the House of Commons today is extremely important to the premier and the province and all the people of Saskatchewan — a province that both the leader of the opposition and I share.”

MPs also sent their condolences to the friends and families of those lost and thanked the first responders who attended the crash scene.

As a symbolic gesture of support, a single hockey stick was leaned against the entrance to the House of Commons today as MPs arrived for Question Period.

A GoFundMe campaign for the victims and their families has surpassed $11 million — one of the largest drives ever.