It was sixteen years today that a Cougar helicopter crashed in the Atlantic Ocean off St. John’s, taking the lives of 17 of the 18 people on board.

Energy NL is among numerous organizations and individuals remembering the 17 lives loss in the crash of Cougar Flight 491 on this day in 2009.

The flight was bringing workers offshore to the SeaRose FPSO and Hibernia Platform when it ditched into the Atlantic Ocean, leaving just one survivor.

An provincial inquiry into the crash, as well as an investigation led by the Transportation Safety Board led to numerous safety recommendations in the offshore oil industry.

Energy NL CEO Charlene Johnson says the tragedy left a profound impact on the energy sector and has had a drastic impact on current and future safety regulations put forward by the industry.

An annual memorial service is taking place this evening at 7:00 at Elim Pentecostal Tabernacle on Kenmount Road.

All are welcome to attend in person or via livestream.

The NDP says Flight 491 serves as an reminder of the importance of safety in all workplaces across Newfoundland and Labrador.

Jim Dinn says many workers in several industries face risks everyday and all measures should be taken to ensure their safety.

Dinn is calling on government to follow through with recommendations outlined in the Health Accord, including the establishment of an Occupational Health and Safety Clinic.

He also wants employer safety records collected and made public to allow for transparency.