DAN CEARNS, The Standard
DURHAM/KAWARTHA: While Queen Elizabeth II’s funeral was a holiday for federal workers, most Ontarians observed it as a day of mourning.
At a press conference, on Tuesday, September 13th, Prime Minister Justin Trudeau announced the former monarch’s funeral would be “designated a holiday for the public service of Canada.” He also noted, the government would be “working with the provinces and territories to try to see we’re aligned on this.”
However, the Ontario government decided to go in a different direction.
“Ontario will mark September 19th, 2022, as a provincial Day of Mourning in lieu of a provincial holiday. The people of Ontario may observe a moment of silence at 1:00 p.m. on that day. This will give all Ontarians an opportunity to reflect on the remarkable life of Queen Elizabeth II and her unrelenting commitment to service and duty. It also allows students to be in school learning about the many contributions the Queen made, to the people of Ontario, Canada, and the entire Commonwealth, as well as the accession of King Charles III,” read a statement from the office of Premier Doug Ford.
The statement also noted, the province encouraged “all Ontarians to use this day to honour Her Majesty and pay tribute to the extraordinary legacy she leaves behind.”
Queen Elizabeth II passed away on Thursday, September 8th, at the age of 96.