Jack Layton will be accorded a state funeral. Here's why, according to a statement distributed this afternoon by Dimitri Soudas, Prime Minister Stephen Harper's director of communications:
“The practice since Confederation has been for the Government of Canada to offer a state funeral to current and former governors general, current and former prime ministers and current members of cabinet.
It is possible for the prime minister on behalf of the Government of Canada, to accord the honour of a state funeral to other eminent Canadians, should it be deemed appropriate.
Prime Minister Harper has exercised his discretion and has offered Ms. Chow a state funeral for Jack Layton. She has accepted.
Canadians will have an opportunity to salute Jack Layton’s contribution to public life as well as offer their heartfelt condolences, their thoughts and prayers to Mr. Layton's family.
More details will follow in due course.”
Now: Wondering if you can help me out? Was Pierre Elliott Trudeau the last Canadian to receive a state funeral? Am I missing someone since?
Governor General Romeo LeBlanc, 2009.
A reader sends in this government list of all the state funerals held in Canadian history. The list was prepared and published for Romeo LeBlanc's state funeral.