Premier John Horgan has issued the following statement in response to the federal government declaring a national holiday to mark the Queen’s funeral:

“Over the last few days, British Columbians have joined with people across the country and around the world in an outpouring of support for the Royal Family over the loss of Queen Elizabeth II. Our government will follow the lead of the federal government and join with other provinces in observing the national day of mourning to mark the Queen’s funeral.

“The national holiday will be observed Monday, Sept. 19 by federal employees. We have advised provincial public-sector employers to honour this day in recognition of the obligations around federal holidays in the vast majority of provincial collective agreements.

“K-12 public schools and public post-secondary institutions, and most Crown corporations will be closed. We encourage private-sector employers to find a way to recognize or reflect on the day in a way that is appropriate for their employees.

“This will be a national day to reflect on the incredible life of Canada’s Queen and the longest-serving monarch in British history.”