SouthShoreNow.ca

Mark Roberts
Lighthouse staff

 BLANDFORD - A public meeting is scheduled for 7 p.m. February 3 at the District #1 Community Centre in Blandford to discuss a proposed memorial to the victims of Swissair Flight 111 and how funds donated to the community on behalf of local volunteers will be spent.

 The public meeting was initiated by Judge Lorne Clarke, who oversees the Flight 111 Secretariat in Halifax. He is also holding meetings in Indian Harbour, Peggy's Cove and Halifax.

 Various sites are under consideration for the memorial, including Bayswater near Blandford and Peggy's Cove. Pearl Island, near Big Tancook Island, is an unlikely site because of its remote location and because it is a bird sanctuary.

 Blandford resident Jane Moffat-Schnare is moderator. She says the session will provide residents with an opportunity to establish, "what type of memorial they want and if they want it to be in their area." Surveys will also be distributed. The provincial Department of Natural Resources is providing maps. The premier's executive assistant, is attending the meeting and local politicians have been invited.A

 Mrs. Moffat-Schnare says choosing the area as a potential site for the memorial recognizes the region's central role in the effort. "This is a nice recognition for our community; that Blandford is being considered as a site. That, alone, is supportive."

 Following the meetings, a survey will be distributed to the families of the victims of Swissair Flight 111 and Judge Clarke will render his decision.

 The other issue under discussion involves funds donated to the community in recognition of the region's huge volunteer effort after the September 2 disaster. Options include scholarships, gardens and a playground. Approximately $25,000 is available.

 Mrs. Moffat-Schnare says she considers the process positive and hopes the unveiling of the memorial and whatever infrastructure is put in place as a result of the donations will be tied to the anniversary of the crash.