“A constant presence”: PM Trudeau mourns the death of Queen Elizabeth II

VANCOUVER-

Mourning the death of Queen Elizabeth II, Prime Minister Justin Trudeau says she was a « constant presence » in the lives of Canadians.

« His service to Canadians will forever remain an important part of our country’s history, » Trudeau said in a tweet.

He said it was with « the heaviest heart » that the federal government learned of his death. The news came in the middle of a federal cabinet retreat in Vancouver and caused those meetings to come to a halt.

“As we look back on her life and reign that spanned so many decades, Canadians will always remember and cherish Her Majesty’s wisdom, compassion and warmth. Our thoughts are with the members of the Royal Family during this most difficult time. »

The Prime Minister is expected to address the country shortly and perhaps outline next steps for Canada, as his passing has triggered a series of protocols.

The flags at Rideau Hall in Ottawa are now flying at half mast.

More soon.