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Trudeau announces donation to Duke of Edinburgh’s award ahead of funeral

Canada will donate $200,000 to the Duke of Edinburgh’s International Award as a tribute to the late Prince Philip’s “remarkable life and his selfless service,” Prime Minister Justin Trudeau announced Saturday.
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Canada will donate $200,000 to the Duke of Edinburgh’s International Award as a tribute to the late Prince Philip’s “remarkable life and his selfless service,” Prime Minister Justin Trudeau announced Saturday.

The announcement came as a ceremonial procession led the Prince’s coffin on a specially adapted Land Rover to St. George’s Chapel at Windsor Castle for the official funeral.

The husband of The Queen for more than three quarters of a century — the longest serving royal consort in British history — died April 9 at the age of 99.

Philip was a “devoted public servant whose contributions changed countless lives around the world, especially those of young people,” Trudeau said in a statement.

The donation to the Canadian branch of the Duke of Edinburgh’s International Award honours his commitment to the success of future generations, he added.

“I encourage young Canadians to find out more about the Duke of Edinburgh’s International Award,” Trudeau said. “Whether you want to develop a new skill, give back to your community, or set out on an adventure, this program is as much a personal challenge as it is a global opportunity.”

Many Canadians are expected to join royal watchers around the world in saying their final goodbyes, albeit virtually.

Due to pandemic protocols, Canadians intending to pay their last respects will be limited to gathering in only small groups to watch the proceedings either on television or online.

The funeral at St. George’s Chapel will salute both Philip’s service in the Royal Navy and his enduring support for his wife the Queen.

The pared down ceremony will be limited to 30 mourner’s inside the chapel, including the widowed queen, her four children and her eight grandchildren.

He will be laid to rest in the Royal Vault at Windsor Castle after the service.

Canada will hold a national commemorative ceremony in honour of the Duke of Edinburgh at Christ Church Cathedral at 12:30 p.m. in Ottawa.

In accordance with pandemic-related restrictions, no guests will be invited to attend the church service, and Canadians are asked to watch the broadcast and not congregate outside.

The ceremony, which will include virtual tributes and performances, will be followed by a recital by the Dominion Carillonneur at the Peace Tower on Parliament Hill.

A gun salute will also be conducted as part of the national commemorative ceremony.