A statement of the Embassy of Poland on the decision of the  B.C. Ministry of Attorney General's Criminal Justice Branch in Robert Dziekański's case

While we understand that the Crown's decision has been made after a thorough investigation this does not diminish the fact that we find it most disappointing. Reading the statement it appears that the main reason for Mr. Dziekanski's death was his fear of flying, tiredness and lack of ability to communicate in English. Particularly disconcerting, though factually baseless, are repeated insinuations of alcohol abuse.

Because of the great interest of public opinion in the case we believe that a public inquiry led by an independent court would have been even more transparent and convincing.

We have to remember that a man died and a responsibility for this lies either with mistakes made by people or with faulty procedures. Since the B.C. Criminal Justice Branch has determined that the officers involved will not face criminal charges, we understand that RCMP procedures related to the use of tasers will be substantially revised. We would be interested to know, for example, if it is in accordance with the rules to use taser 5 times, including twice towards a person who is already lying on the ground convulsing. We therefore look forward to the Braidwood Commission proceedings.

In this context we view as most compelling the conclusions of an independent report by University of Ottawa criminologist John Kiedrowski, ordered by RCMP Commissioner William Elliott, to the effect that the RCMP's use of tasers should be preceded by independent research and studies and not based solely on manufacturers recommendations as is the case today.  

We must underline that obviously something went terribly wrong and we can not just drop the charges and forget about this tragic accident without any consequences or lessons drawn for the future. It is especially pertinent to undertake major, credible actions in light of upcoming Vancouver 2010 Winter Olympics.

For the loss she suffered Mrs. Zofia Cisowski should first of all obtain moral redress, but, we believe, that a financial compensation should also be extended. It is difficult to believe that the accident at the Vancouver International Airport could not have been avoided and no one is at fault.