Prime Minister Justin Trudeau issued the following statement after learning of the death of Member of Parliament Mauril Bélanger.
“I was incredibly saddened to learn today of the death of my friend and colleague Mauril Bélanger. On behalf of all Canadians, Sophie and I offer our deepest condolences to his family, friends, constituents, and many, many admirers.
“Mauril served the people of Ottawa-Vanier for over 20 years, and was a tireless advocate of francophone rights, national unity, and a fair and just society for all.
“For his efforts, Mauril was given the Commandeur de l’Ordre de la Pléïade (an order of La Francophonie), named Officer of the Order of Merit of the Republic of Hungary, and received the l’Ordre national Grand-Croix ‘Honneur et Mérite’ from Haiti.
“Mauril held many positions in Cabinet over the years, including Deputy House Leader and Government Whip. Despite being very sick towards the end of his life, Mauril continued to serve Canadians with great dignity, courage, and strength.
“A politician universally respected by parliamentarians of all parties, he was named Honorary Speaker of the House of Commons by unanimous consent in December 2015.
“Mauril’s immense contributions to our country will be honoured and remembered. We are all the poorer for his passing.
“Goodbye my friend.”
Ottawa Life Magazine had many dealings with Mauril over the past 20 years. Mauril was a wonderfully authentic, intelligent, thoughtful and kind person. He loved public service. In March 2010 Mauril was featured on the cover of Ottawa Life Magazine in honour of his tireless work for the community. He appeared as part of the series Our City Our Children which highlighted efforts being made to assist young people and children at risk in the community. Mauril was a champion of the people and a one of the best MPs ever to represent an Ottawa riding since Confederation. He will be missed.
