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House of Commons pays tribute to former Liberal prime minister John Turner

Sep 24, 2020 | 8:33 AM

OTTAWA — Justin Trudeau says former Liberal prime minister John Turner was someone who knew that Canadians had to work hard for democracy and that it should never be taken for granted.

The prime minister and representatives of the other political parties are paying tribute in the House of Commons today to Turner, who died Saturday at age 91.

Trudeau, who says he knew Turner his whole life, invited Canadians to celebrate his legacy by signing the virtual book of condolences.

Deputy Conservative leader Candice Bergen says it is clear from the stories about him that Turner cared about individual Canadians, not just those he met in the corridors of power.

Turner served 79 days as prime minister in 1984 but spent three decades in public life, including as finance minister, justice minister and leader of the Liberals in opposition.

A state funeral, which will not be open to the public due to COVID-19 restrictions, will take place Oct. 6 at St. Michael’s Cathedral Basilica in Toronto.

This report by The Canadian Press was first published Sept. 24, 2020.

The Canadian Press