Ottawa, Wednesday, April 6, 2011

It is a pleasure to be with you here today for the unveiling of two commemorative coins in honour of the upcoming Royal Wedding of His Royal Highness Prince William and Miss Catherine Middleton. It is also my pleasure to strike one on this occasion, as past governors general have done.

Anticipation is building for the nuptials on April 29. In countries across the Commonwealth, celebrations are being arranged and the champagne is being uncorked to toast one of the most joyous occasions in life: the joining of two people in marriage.

My wife, Sharon, and I are so excited to represent Canadians at the wedding and could not be happier to see two people so much in love. I was Sharon’s first date when she was 13, in her first year at Sault Ste. Marie Collegiate Institute. Forty-six years of marriage later, five daughters and seven grand children, she is still my best friend, my inspiration and the wind beneath my wings. That is what we wish for Prince William and Miss Middleton: a lifetime of happiness with your best friend.

We look forward to expressing our congratulations in person, as well as during their upcoming Royal Tour of Canada, their first official visit abroad as a married couple. 

This wedding is also an opportunity to renew our commitment to the Crown and to celebrate our rich history. That is another reason why I am pleased to unveil these commemorative coins today. Created by the Royal Canadian Mint, these coins not only celebrate the Royal Wedding, but also represent the history that we share with the Royal Family.

These pieces acknowledge our loyalty to and our love of the Crown.

I also applaud the talented and creative people at the Mint for their innovative approach to crafting these coins. Their dedication and commitment to their craft is exemplary, and I salute them.

Every year, the Mint helps this country mark important occasions and celebrate Canadians who have made a difference. It creates unforgettable symbols of Canada. I am grateful to everyone here for their dedication to promoting our Canadian identity.

I have no doubt that, as we approach the Royal Wedding, the Royal Tour, and the Diamond Jubilee of Her Majesty The Queen in 2012, the Royal Canadian Mint will continue to honour our heritage in a number of distinctive ways.

Thank you.