Norm Macdonald MLA                                Columbia River – Revelstoke

MEDIA RELEASE

For immediate release

February 13th, 2008

Macdonald asks local governments to support family’s request for Coroner’s Inquest

Following a meeting on Thursday, February 7th with Don and Betty Michalsky, MLA for Columbia River – Revelstoke Norm Macdonald has responded to the family’s request to ask local governments in his constituency to call for a Coroner’s Inquest into the death of Tammy Lee Ellis (nee Michalsky).

“The family of Tammy Lee Ellis feels that systemic problems within the 911 system may have been a factor in her death and are asking for a Coroner’s Inquest to fully understand if steps could be taken to improve the system and hopefully save other’s lives,” stated Macdonald.

Witnesses to the Ellis murder called 911 but received a recorded message in response.

The Michalsky family has developed a website at www.tammy911.com which includes an online petition.

“We need an independent review of this case.  People in my area need to know with confidence that 911 will be available to serve them in their time of need.”