Condolences from leaders from Pickering to Clarington on passing of former PM Brian Mulroney

Condolences continue to stream in from leaders in Durham Region on the passing of former Prime Minister Brian Mulroney, who died Thursday at the age of 84.

“Prime Minister Mulroney served his country with dedication, championing free trade, national unity, environmental protection, and social justice,” said Clarington Mayor Adrian Foster. “He played a vital role in the end of apartheid in South Africa and promoted democracy and human rights around the world. His legacy as Prime Minister is immeasurable, and we owe him a great debt for his unwavering commitment to our country.”

Pickering Mayor Kevin Ashe called Mulroney, who served as Prime Minister from 1984-1993 a “giant of Canadian politics” who guided Canada “through a transformative era with unwavering dedication to public service.”

“His immense legacy is marked by significant achievements, including the U.S. free trade deal, and commitment to constitutional reforms, leaving a lasting impact on our nation.”

Ashe also remembered Mulroney for his “courageous stand” against apartheid in South Africa, where he distanced himself from close allies in U.S. President Ronald Reagan and British Prime Minister Margaret Thatcher to “champion justice on the global stage, while sending a powerful message that principles and justice should transcend diplomatic norms.”

Oshawa Mayor Dan Carter also cited Mulroney’s stand in support of sanctions against apartheid South Africa, saying the Prime Minister “elevated Canada” in the eyes of the world.

“Mr. Mulroney is remembered as a courageous leader,” Carter said. “As Prime Minister, he introduced significant economic change initiatives in our country and promoted Canada’s active participation on the global stage, opposing apartheid in South Africa and leading efforts to respond to the Ethiopian famine.”

Whitby Mayor Elizabeth Roy said she was “saddened” to learn Mulroney’s death. “Mr. Mulroney will be remembered as a Prime Minister who guided our country through challenging national and global issues, with a focus on building a modern and prosperous Canada.”

Ajax Mayor Shaun Collier called Mulroney a “charismatic public speaker and a bold leader” who “tacked head-on some of the greatest challenges of his era.”

“Mr. Mulroney gave his life to public service and he passed on this legacy down through his children.”

Flags have been lowered to half-mast at City and Town halls and facilities around the Region with flags at half-mast until sunset on the day of Mulroney’s state funeral.