Deep Sadness at the Loss of the Queen Mother

Premier John Hamm today expressed deep sadness at the loss of Queen Elizabeth the Queen Mother.

"Throughout her lifetime, the Queen Mother always stood tall as a symbol of dedication, service and courage," said the premier. "On behalf of all Nova Scotians, I would like to express deepest sympathies to Her Majesty the Queen and the House of Windsor on this sad day."

Premier Hamm noted that highlights of the Queen Mother's close relationship to Nova Scotia included her visit to the province with King George VI in 1939, her receiving an honourary degree from Dalhousie University in 1967 and her officially opening the first Nova Scotia International Tattoo in 1979.

"The Queen Mother will always be remembered as somebody we could all relate to, regardless of age, gender, nationality or religion," concluded the premier. "May Her Majesty rest in peace."

Premier Hamm said a book of condolences will be available for Nova Scotians to sign, beginning Tuesday, April 2.