This is a profoundly sombre day with the passing of Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II.

Her death is a tremendous, unmatched loss for the Commonwealth and the nation – and Nova Scotia, which hosted Her Majesty on many royal tours spanning back to her first visit in 1951. Since then, the bond between Nova Scotia and Her Majesty has endured for decades and is reflected throughout every corner of our province.

The degree of devotion, humility, and duty Her Majesty brought to her 70 year reign is nothing short of remarkable. As the longest reigning British monarch and female Head of State, Her Majesty embodied a lifetime commitment to public service and most admirably – most importantly – to people.

Her Majesty leaves a legacy of unparalleled grit and grace; we will never see Her like again.

My deepest condolences to the Royal Family as we collectively share in their grief.