Statement by the Premier on the death of former Prime Minister Brian Mulroney

Premier Ranj Pillai has issued the following statement:

“With the passing of former Prime Minister of Canada Brian Mulroney, Canada has lost a great leader who helped make our nation what it is today.

“Mr. Mulroney became Prime Minister in 1984, serving his country in that role until 1993. His achievements during that time were many and included signing a free trade deal with the United States and Mexico which expanded into the North American Free Trade Agreement, overseeing the passing of the Canadian Environmental Protection Act and creating eight new national parks, and opposing apartheid in South Africa. His commitment to the land claims process has a lasting legacy in the Yukon, as it was under his tenure as Prime Minister that the Umbrella Final Agreement was signed.

“Among numerous other awards throughout his lifetime, Mr. Mulroney received the Order of Canada in 1998. Most recently, he is to be admired for speaking publicly about his treatment for prostate cancer and for helping to raise awareness of the disease.

“We can be grateful to Mr. Mulroney for his significant contributions to creating the strong country in which we are fortunate to live. 

“On behalf of Yukoners, my thoughts and deep sympathies are with his family and friends.”