Like many of you, I was deeply saddened today to learn of the death of our Queen – the only monarch most of us have ever known – Her Late Majesty Queen Elizabeth the Second.
Her reign of over 70 years spanned an incredible period of history. She was Queen during the term of 12 Canadian Prime Ministers and 9 Saskatchewan Premiers. But even more enduring was the dedication, dignity and grace with which she served as Queen of Canada and the Commonwealth.
Many of us have fond memories of Her Late Majesty’s visits to our province – first as Princess Elizabeth in 1951 and then on five occasions as Queen – in 1959, 1973, 1978, 1987 and 2005.
She visited many parts of our province, meeting with people from all walks of life, including continuing the special relationship between the Crown and Indigenous Peoples.
Today, we express both our condolences and our loyalty to the Crown and to our new Monarch, His Majesty the King. I know he will carry on his responsibilities with the same honour, dignity and grace exemplified by his late mother every day of her 70-year reign.
Flags at the Legislature and at provincial buildings are already at half-mast in remembrance of the victims of the recent attacks at James Smith Cree Nation and Weldon. They will remain at half-mast until His Majesty’s Accession is proclaimed, where they will be raised and then lowered again until the day of Her Late Majesty’s funeral service. Books of condolences will be available to be signed by the public during regular business hours at the Legislative Building and Government House in Regina.
God bless Saskatchewan. God bless Canada. And God Save The King.
Statement from Opposition NDP Leader Carla Beck
I was saddened to learn that Elizabeth the Second, Queen of Canada passed away peacefully surrounded by close family. Today, we mark the loss of a revered monarch who presided over our province for nearly three quarters of a century. At just 21 years old, she said “I declare before you all that my whole life, whether it be long or short, will be dedicated to your service.” She stood by that declaration. In the days ahead, we will come together as a province to celebrate her reign and selfless devotion to duty. She was a remarkable leader for our country and our commonwealth, and she will be missed by all.
The world has lost a remarkable individual. Through a life devoted to duty, Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II exemplified integrity, humility, inner strength and outward grace. She was a constant in a changing world. She respected tradition but embraced change. As Head of the Commonwealth, she encouraged unity. As Queen of Canada, she remarked often on the service of our citizens, our commitment to multiculturalism and our potential to influence the world.
Her Majesty was very fond of Canada and Canadians and thought of our country as her home away from home. She was committed to Reconciliation and acknowledged the painful history that Indigenous peoples endured in residential schools in Canada, as well as the work that remains to heal and to continue to build an inclusive society.
While we mourn her loss, we can also give thanks for her extraordinary contributions to Canada and the world.
Statement from Lieutenant Governor of Manitoba
It is with profound sadness that His Honour and I learned of the passing of Her Majesty, Queen Elizabeth II.
For more than seven decades, Her Majesty had been respected and revered for her steadfast leadership and unwavering commitment and service to the citizens of Manitoba, Canada, and the Commonwealth.
Her Majesty enjoyed a wonderful relationship with all of the people of Manitoba, during her six visits to our province. She spent time in communities large and small throughout our province, making numerous lasting personal connections.
From Queen Elizabeth’s first official visit as Princess Elizabeth in 1951 to her most recent visit as Queen in 2010, she was welcomed with great love and admiration for her service to Canada, and her dedication to serving her subjects around the world with dignity, grace and humility.
On behalf of all Manitobans, I offer heartfelt sympathies to Her Majesty’s beloved and devoted family, who will carry Her Majesty’s legacy forward with the same loyalty and commitment for many generations to come.
I share with all Canadians, and the other peoples of the Commonwealth, a great sense of loss on her passing.
May Her Majesty rest in peace. Long live the King.
Statement from Premier Heather Stefanson
I was saddened to learn today of the death of Her Majesty, Queen Elizabeth II. In 70 years as Queen, Her Majesty developed a special relationship with our province and with Manitobans.
Her Majesty visited Manitoba on six separate occasions, with stops in a number of communities including Winnipeg, Churchill, Brandon, Beausejour, Norway House, Carman, Gillam, Flin Flon, Swan River, The Pas, Portage la Prairie, Oakville, Dugald and Dauphin. From Her Majesty’s first official visit as Princess Elizabeth in 1951 to her final visit as Queen in 2010, the Queen celebrated Manitoba’s centenary, toured many locations and businesses and made personal connections with thousands of Manitobans.
As a young woman, Her Majesty pledged to devote her whole life to service and to show “an unwavering faith, a high courage, and a quiet heart.” The Queen accomplished this and so much more.
Leading with determination, commitment, dedication and purpose, Her Majesty showed great strength of mind and character, loyalty, steadfastness and determination. At the same time, the Queen was devoted to her husband and they raised a family that will carry Her Majesty’s legacy forward for decades to come.
On behalf of all Manitobans, I extend our sympathies to His Majesty King Charles III and the entire Royal Family.
Manitobans can visit manitobalg.ca to share memories of Her Majesty with Canadians and the Royal Family via a virtual book of condolence link.
May Her Majesty rest in peace. Long live the King.
