Gov. Gen. Mary Simon has delivered a speech mourning Queen Elizabeth II’s death, offering condolences to the royal family.
Buckingham Palace announced that Queen Elizabeth passed away at the age of 96 on Sept. 8, making her the longest-serving monarch in British history with a reign of 70 years and 214 days.
Simon, who was named the monarch’s representative in Canada last summer, said the Queen “remained engaged and committed to her country” until her final days.
“On behalf of all Canadians, I offer deepest condolences to the members of the royal family, who grieve the loss of a loving mother, grandmother, and great-grandmother,” Simon said at a press conference on Sept. 8.
“Her reign encompassed the mandates of 12 Canadian prime ministers and 13 governors general. On 22 occasions, she undertook official visits to Canada, where she professed her love for our country again and again. She was a steadfast presence during some of the most tumultuous times of our lives, and most recently gave comfort to so many during the pandemic.”
“For many of us, we have only ever known one Queen.”
“For most Canadians, we have known no other Sovereign. Queen Elizabeth II was a constant presence in our lives. Time and again, Her Majesty marked Canada’s modern history. Over the course of 70 years and twenty-three Royal Tours, Queen Elizabeth II saw this country from coast to coast to coast and was there for our major, historical milestones,” he said,
“The coming days will be a period of mourning for Canadians, as it will be for all Commonwealth citizens, ending with a national day of mourning when a commemorative service will be held to mark the passing of our Sovereign.”
Protocol calls for 10 days of mourning following the Queen’s death. A funeral date is expected to be announced soon, which governors general and Commonwealth prime ministers are expected to attend in London, England.
Succession from the queen to her eldest son, now known as King Charles III, is automatic. There will be some formalities subsequent to the transition, including a proclamation from the governor general.
