After observing a minute of silence, federal leaders and MPs paid tribute to former Prime Minister Brian Mulroney in Ottawa on Monday.
“Brian Mulroney’s principles shaped this nation and the world for the better. We will continue this work,” said Prime Minister Justin Trudeau, visibly moved, during his speech.
Opposition Leader Pierre Poilievre also spoke of his memories of the former Progressive Conservative prime minister.
“When he arrived in the House with his big smile and his confident tone, I think it was enough to make anyone take a walk in the snow,” he said, with a smile on his face.
Mr. Mulroney’s three sons, present in Ottawa to attend the tribute, said they were deeply touched by the parliamentarians’ words.
“He loved every minute spent in the House, the parliamentary process, the debates…” testified his son Mark Mulroney in a brief exchange with the media Monday afternoon.
“Sitting in the gallery and hearing everyone speak so positively about him, he would have loved that. We cannot be more grateful,” he added alongside his two brothers, Ben and Nicolas.
Mr. Mulroney’s remains will be in state in state, accessible to the public on Tuesday and Wednesday in Ottawa.
Mr. Mulroney led the country as Progressive Conservative prime minister from 1984 to 1993. He died in Florida on February 29 at the age of 84. His state funeral will take place in Montreal this Saturday.