Trudeau announces 'federal holiday' for Queen's funeral, but here's who'll actually have the day off
CTV
While Prime Minister Justin Trudeau said Monday, Sept. 19 will be a federal holiday and a day of mourning as Queen Elizabeth II’s funeral takes place in the U.K., Labour Minister Seamus O’Regan later clarified the designation only applies to federal government employees.
While Prime Minister Justin Trudeau said Monday, Sept. 19 will be a federal holiday and a day of mourning as Queen Elizabeth II’s funeral takes place in the U.K., Labour Minister Seamus O’Regan later clarified the designation only applies to federal government employees.
The prime minister’s comments at a news conference Tuesday morning have prompted many to wonder whether they’ll have the day off next week, while the provinces are taking a piecemeal approach to whether schools and workplaces will be closed in their jurisdictions.
Trudeau said Monday would be a “federal holiday.” It will apply to federal government employees, but not automatically to those working in federally-regulated industries — such as banks, airlines, post offices, and Crown corporations, Labour Minister Seamus O’Regan subsequently tweeted.
“Federally regulated employers are welcome to follow suit, but they are not required to do so,” O’Regan wrote.
Quebec Premier Francois Legault told reporters Tuesday the day of the Queen’s funeral will be one of commemoration, but not a holiday in the province. He added he’ll continue campaigning before Quebecers head to the polls Oct. 3.
Ontario Premier Doug Ford also said there’ll be no holiday in his province, opting instead for a provincial “Day of Mourning,” with a moment of silence at 1 p.m.
“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,” he wrote in a statement. “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.”
