Statement from Coates Family

Good afternoon.

My name is Luc Coates, and I am the eldest of three children. On behalf of my mother, Lise, my sister, Julie, and my brother, Mathieu, and all of our family and friends, we want you to know that we are still waiting for news from rescue operations underway in Haiti.

My dad is a dedicated husband and father. He has a deep conviction for his work and a passion to help others. He has always wanted to make the world a better place. This passion is what has drawn him back to Haiti again and again for more than 15 years.

I am proud of the difference he has made there mentoring police officers from the lowest-ranking constables to the most senior leaders of a police force. Through his work he has touched the lives of countless Haitians. His strength and courage has been an inspiration to me and my family. He is a true role model.

We have not given up hope for his safe return to us. If anyone has the strength, courage and will to survive, it’s my father, Doug.

From the bottom of our hearts, we’d like to thank the police officers, relief teams and all members of the international community for their ongoing efforts in Haiti, as well as everyone here at home in Canada for their tremendous support.

Our thoughts go out to the many other families who are going through this same ordeal.

We also wish to extend our deepest condolences to the Gallagher family. You are in our prayers.

By way of support, we kindly ask that you respect our privacy in this difficult time.

Thanks to everyone, and thank you for understanding.

The Coates Family