State Funerals in Canada

The passing of Herb Gray a few days ago has created some discussion about state funerals in Canada. While state funerals are normally reserved for governors general, prime ministers and serving cabinet ministers, the prime minister can bestow that honor on others. Even though Herb Gray, a popular and long-serving parliamentarian, may have warranted that honor in line with other recent state funerals, it was not offered. The last two state funerals were for Jack Layton and more recently Jim Flaherty, both extremely well-liked politicians. Both funerals were exceptions to the normal protocol.

From my perspective, too many exceptions risks eroding the significance of the honor attached to state funerals. Notwithstanding the emotional tugs that go with giving state funeral honors to well-liked people, not to mention the cost to the taxpayer for these events, perhaps it is time to attach more specific guidelines to the prime minister’s prerogative in deciding these matters. As tempting and politically self-serving as it may be, the current popularity of a person should not be the driving force behind the decision. When the prime minister approves a state funeral, he/she should be required to explain to Canadians the broader national importance for that event.