Following in the steps of other Commonwealth nations like New Zealand and Australia, Canada will observe a national day of mourning for Queen Elizabeth’s funeral on Monday, September 19.
Prime Minister Justin Trudeau made the announcement Tuesday during the final day of the Liberal caucus retreat in New Brunswick.
“We have chosen to move forward with a federal holiday on Monday. We will be working with the provinces and territories to try and see that we’re aligned on this. There are still a few details to be worked out. But declaring an opportunity for Canadians to mourn on Monday is going to be important. So for our part, we will be letting federal employees know that Monday will be a day of mourning, where they will not work,” Trudeau said.
When asked about the future of Canada’s relationship with the Monarchy, now under the rule of King Charles, Trudeau stated he feels Canadians are proud of our rich history and our democracy, but in his own mind, he feels it’s the least of what worries Canadians.
“My own perspective is that Canadians are almost entirely preoccupied with the big issues we’re facing, whether it’s rises in the cost of living, global inflation, war in Ukraine, challenges around positioning our economy and our jobs to succeed in a carbon neutral world, in a world in which we’re fighting climate change. These are the things that Canadians are talking to me about. Community safety, opportunities for their kids, good jobs into the future, that’s the focus we will continue to have as a government,” Trudeau added.
Additionally, Trudeau announced on the final day of the Liberal caucus retreat new humanitarian aid for Pakistan, which is still reeling from devastating floods, including 25 million in immediate aid for recovery and rebuilding. The Prime Minister also announced new cost of living measures, which include plans to double the GST tax credit for six months, institute a new national dental care program, and a one time $500 top up to the Canada Housing Benefit Program.
