(OTTAWA) Canadians mourning the death of Queen Elizabeth II can pay their respects in a book of condolences at Rideau Hall in Ottawa starting Friday, while an online version has been available since Thursday evening.
Posted at 6:19 a.m.
The British monarch and Canadian head of state died Thursday at the age of 96.
The announcement of her death came hours after the palace said the queen had been placed under medical supervision, with doctors worried about her health.
Succession to his eldest son, now known as King Charles III, is automatic.
Political leaders across the country expressed their condolences on Thursday, praising the Queen’s service and sense of duty during her seven-decade reign.
Prime Minister Justin Trudeau testified that the monarch was one of his favorite people in the world, describing her as “thoughtful, wise, curious, helpful and funny” in a brief statement to reporters in Vancouver.
Royal watchers and others have also expressed grief over the Queen’s passing, with many calling it the “end of an era”.
Robert Finch, president of the Monarchist League of Canada, stressed Thursday that Canadians will process the loss at their own pace as commemorations take place across the Commonwealth in the coming days.
People laid flowers on the steps of the British High Commission in downtown Ottawa on Thursday. Flags fly at half mast at Ottawa City Hall and at the Peace Tower on Parliament Hill.
The protocol provides for 10 days of mourning after the death of the queen. A funeral date is expected to be announced shortly. Commonwealth Governors General and Prime Ministers are expected to attend in London.