On behalf of the people of Battle River—Crowfoot, Danielle and I would like to express our profound sorrow on the passing of Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth. Further, as a Parliamentarian in a Commonwealth country, a Canadian, and a Conservative with the deepest respect for our democratic institutions… this is a moment of great sadness as we bid farewell to Her Majesty. She served as the model for integrity, poise, and dignity during her reign as sovereign of our great nation.
Visiting Canada more than 20 times since her coronation, our country always had a special place in Her Majesty’s heart. She played an integral role in making Canada into the country we see today. Notably, she signed the Constitution Act granting Canada the ability to amend our constitution with full autonomy. She entrenched the Charter of Rights and Freedoms firmly into Canadian law. This moment was key for laying the groundwork for Canada’s future autonomous and democratic governance. Further, her role in the Canadian Armed Forces has had a profound impact on all those who have donned our nation’s uniform. Canada will always be grateful for the influence she had in the evolution of our country.
As Britain’s longest-serving monarch, Her Majesty was a gift to us all. As Canada moves forward, as we have always done, it is important, if not integral, to never forget the strength she instilled in us as a nation. Queen Elizabeth II was the epitome of grace. The profound lessons in leadership she provided will serve as an example for many years to come. These lessons are embedded in many facets of life in Canada: our service men and women, who selflessly protect Canada from malevolent entities wishing us harm; emergency responders, who risk their lives to save another; and folks who are willing to put in the blood, sweat, and tears to aid less fortunate here and around the world. Selflessness is the Canadian way and was something Her Majesty exemplified time and time again. In fact, her last public message was one of care regarding the recent tragedy in Saskatchewan.
Her Majesty’s sense of duty and service to others was always paramount in her reign. This was evident in the numerous goodwill and charitable organizations she endeavoured to support. In Canada alone, Her Majesty was a patron of more than 36 charities and organizations. Her altruistic service made her the Queen of our hearts.
She, herself, put it best when she said, “My whole life, whether it be long or short, shall be devoted to your service and the service of our great imperial family, to which we all belong.”
On behalf of a grateful people, we shall forever cherish the memory of the only monarch most Canadians have ever known.
Thank you, Your Majesty, for your selfless service, love, and commitment to the Commonwealth, which will serve as a guidepost to King Charles III.
God Save the King.