Statement by Jack Layton on the death of a Canadian solider in Afghanistan

It was with great sadness that I learned of the passing of Sapper Brian Collier, a member of our Canadian Forces, yesterday. Sapper Collier was killed by an improvised explosive device in Afghanistan. He was 24 years old.

Based in CFB Edmonton, Sapper Collier was a member of the First Combat Engineers Regiment. It was his first deployment. Sapper Collier was described by his peers as courageous, enthusiastic and highly skilled.

On behalf of the New Democrats, I would like to offer my sincere condolences to Sapper Collier’s loved ones.