Update: Thursday, September 15, 2022 (Wetaskiwin, Alberta) — While City of Wetaskiwin has been respecting the period of national mourning — which began immediately following the passing of Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II last Thursday and will last until her funeral — the City will not be observing a holiday on Monday, September 19.
The federal government announced Tuesday, September 13 there will be a National Day of Mourning in Canada to coincide with the Queen’s funeral on September 19.
The government of Alberta declared Wednesday, September 14 it will also observe a day of provincial mourning on September 19. While it is not mandatory to have full closures, employers are encouraged to make accommodations for employees to either attend the ceremony at the legislature or otherwise appropriately mark the occasion. To that end, the City has made the decision to keep its facilities open to the public on Monday, September 19.
The City has chosen to observe the national mourning and pay its respects to Her Majesty through other means, such as:
- City council held its regular meeting Monday, September 12, but other City events — including the City Open House scheduled for Saturday, September 17 — have be postponed in observance of the period of national mourning.
- Deputy Mayor Wayne Neilson read a statement from council on the passing of Her Majesty prior to the regular council meeting Monday at Wetaskiwin City Hall. Video of Monday’s council meeting is available online.
- The official portrait of Her Majesty and the ceremonial gavel in council chambers at city hall have been shrouded in black and City officials will be wearing black ribbons as a sign of mourning and respect until Her Majesty’s funeral is concluded.
- Flags at City facilities will fly at half-mast until 8 a.m. on Tuesday, September 20.
The Royal Canadian Legion Branch No. 86 (5003 52 Avenue) has a book of condolences placed in its foyer and it is available to members of the public to sign. The Government of Alberta has established a digital condolence book for Albertans to sign online. Alternatively, select provincial buildings — such as the Legislature — and participating MLA offices have physical books for the public to sign.
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Initial release: Friday, September 9, 2022 (Wetaskiwin, Alberta) — It is a somber time for Canadians and citizens of the Commonwealth around the globe.
Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II died peacefully on September 8, 2022, at Balmoral Castle, Scotland. She was 96 years old.
“We were saddened to hear the news of Her Majesty’s passing Thursday,” said Mayor Tyler Gandam. “Many in Wetaskiwin feel a deep connection to the Crown, to Queen Elizabeth in particular, as she is the only monarch most have ever known. She reigned with grace, compassion, and an unwavering sense of duty. We will fondly remember her as a dignified global leader and committed public servant.”
Her Majesty was 25 years old when she ascended to the throne on February 6, 1952, upon the death of her father, King George VI. This year marked her Platinum Jubilee — the 70th year of her reign — making the Queen the longest-reigning monarch in British and Commonwealth history. During that time, Her Majesty made more visits to Canada than any other country; over the course of her 22 visits, she managed to visit every province and territory. The last of her six visits to Alberta came in 2005.
The City of Wetaskiwin offers our deepest condolences to the Royal Family, the people of the United Kingdom, and the Commonwealth as a whole.
Further details regarding the City’s response during the national mourning period will be announced as they become available. The Government of Alberta has established a digital condolence book for Albertans to sign online. Alternatively, select provincial buildings — such as the Legislature — and participating MLA offices will have physical books for the public to sign.
About the City of Wetaskiwin
Wetaskiwin is a secure, connected, and inclusive community, home to a diverse population of nearly 13,000 people. Located only 30 minutes south of Edmonton International Airport, the City of Wetaskiwin provides a high quality of life through ample recreation opportunities, diverse cultural activities, and a modernized, business-friendly downtown.
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Media contact:
Kristen Hewlett, Interim Communications Manager
City of Wetaskiwin
(p) 780.361.4415 (c) 780.335.2742
kristen.hewlett@wetaskiwin.ca