The province is recognizing Sept. 19 as a day of mourning to encourage Manitobans to honour and pay their respects to Her late Majesty Queen Elizabeth II, Premier Heather Stefanson announced Tuesday (Sept 13).
All non-essential government services and offices will be closed for the day. Schools will remain open and classes will be in session, and child-care facilities will also be open. The health-care system will continue to operate as usual.
“I encourage all Manitobans to take a moment to reflect on Her late Majesty’s special relationship with our province and her countless contributions to our country and the entire Commonwealth,” said Stefanson. “Queen Elizabeth II had a remarkable reign and an unwavering commitment to service and duty. May she rest in peace.”
The premier is encouraging all schools to observe a moment of silence on the day.
Tuesday’s announcement follows the federal government’s decision to mark Sept. 19 – the day of the funeral for Her late Majesty Queen Elizabeth II – as a one-time federal holiday for core federal public services, the premier noted.
A 21-gun salute will take place on the south grounds of the Legislative Building, to coincide with the federal memorial service in Ottawa. This will be followed by a Royal Gun Salute of 96 rounds to honour each year of Her Majesty’s life. The provincial memorial service will take place at 7 p.m. at St. John’s Anglican Cathedral in Winnipeg, by invitation. Church bells will toll 96 times prior to the commencement of the service.
The public is welcome to sign books of condolence for the duration of the period of mourning at the Legislative Building, Winnipeg City Hall, Brandon City Hall, Steinbach City Hall and Thompson City Hall.
