Blog Posts

Her Majesty Elizabeth II, Queen of Canada (1926-2022)

9/8/2022

"Grief is the price we pay for love" ~Dr. Colin Murray Parkes and popularized by the Queen in 2001.

Loyally Yours,
A Kisaragi Colour

The Monarchist Angle to the Lisa LaFlamme Story

8/27/2022

By now most people have heard the
news about CTV News National
anchor Lisa LaFlamme being fired
without cause. I'm not going to re-
hash the opposing claims as I
wanted to highlight one aspect of
the story that sometimes gets
overlooked.

Dispute Over Jubilee Coverage.

At this time I would like to introduce the second player in this
story; Michael Melling. Michael is a vice-president of Bell
Media which owns CTV News. He is currently on leave to
'spend more time with his family'.

Apparently, one of the issues that caused bad blood between
LaFlamme and Melling was the vice-president's initial refusal
to send a news crew to London to cover the Platinum Jubilee
celebrations. A staff member has quoted Melling as saying at
the time, "We’re not going. Cancel. It’s not worth it. Let’s
cover it from Toronto" and that it 'wasn't worth the expense'.
Lisa LaFlamme is reported to have replied, "We have to cover
the Queen! She’s Canada’s Queen too."

After more back and forth a reduced team was allowed to go
but they had to give up a shooting location near the event for
one much further away.

Lloyd Robertson, Lisa LaFlamme's predecessor, was also a
strong supporter of covering the monarchy and became an
honorary member of the Monarchist League of Canada in
1995. With both long-time news anchors out of a job it does
raise questions about future coverage of royal news.

Michael Melling; Republican or Ass?

Upon learning about the events described above I began to
wonder whether Michael Melling's actions were driven by
ideological, cost-benefit, or personal considerations. This is
somewhat hard to gauge as Michael has kept a fairly low
public profile and his coverage of news events in his former
career as a journalist don't touch on the monarchy.

Obviously, journalists with an awareness of the monarchy's
importance are ones I would like to see succeed. Bell Media
has not said that they will rehire Lisa LaFlamme, nor have
they said they will fire Michael Melling. Most likely they are
hoping their turn as 'newsmakers' will be brief.

Loyally Yours,
A Kisaragi Colour

Royal Residences: Fredericton Government House

7/31/2022

In late June I had the pleasure to visit New Brunswick's
Government House in Fredericton to attend a garden party
hosted by the Lieutenant-Governor of New Brunswick,
Brenda Murphy. For those unfamiliar, a 'government house' is
the term for an official residence of the monarch in Canada
and around the Commonwealth. In Canada the government
houses also serve as the residence of Her Majesty's vice-regal
representatives.

Exterior

Note the masonry work on the right where windows/doors have been removed.

Government House was built in 1828 in the Georgian style.
However, in 1890 then Lieutenant-Governor Samuel Tilley
relocated as he felt the maintenance budget for the building
was too small (given the current ramshackle nature of the
prime minister's official residence this is believable). For the
next 109 years the building served a number of purposes
including a military barracks and headquarters of the Royal
Canadian Mounted Police. In 1958 it was designated a
National Historic Site of Canada followed by a similar
provincial designation in 1996. This kicked off an effort to
refurbish the building which finished in 1999 and the building
returned to its original purpose as a government house.

Efforts were taken to find plants native to New Brunswick

The building has extensive
gardens. Indeed, the event I was
attending was in honour of Her
Majesty's Platinum Jubilee and
an addition to the ground's gardens to mark the event. There
are a number of large trees on the
property and its distance from
the downtown core gives it the feel of a private residence. The
building overlooks the Saint John River and a cycling path runs along the back between the building and the river.

The grounds are commonly used for Canada Day and New
Brunswick Day celebrations.

Tree planted in honour of former Lieutenant-Governor Jocelyne Roy-Vienneau 1956-2019

Interior

Excluding the basement (the 'dungeon') the building has three
floors with the first and second storey open to the public and
the third storey serving as the residence.

There is an extensive collection of
artwork housed on the first and
second floors. Spiral stairways at
both ends of the building provide
access to the upper floors.

One wing of the main floor is set
aside for First Nations artwork owing
to their close relationship with the
Crown.

Robes worn by Lady Dunn to the Queen's coronation

Due to the building's long history of non-use as a residence it
is one of several government houses in Canada that has never
had a monarch spend the night.

Gallery

'The Heart of the Empire' 1935. Presented to the Lieutenant-Governor in 2013 by the Monarchist League of Canada

Second Floor Gallery

First Floor Sitting Room

Loyally Yours,
A Kisaragi Colour

Albert County Museum Jubilee Event: Speeches and a Surprise Announcement

6/4/2022

The Albert County Museum held a tree planting and reception
to mark Her Majesty's Platinum Jubilee. The event was well
attended and, besides a tipsy flag, went off without a hitch.

Speeches by the Dignitaries

There were several invited guests including a representative
from the provincial government (MLA Mike Holland), Village
of Hillsborough (Mayor Robert Rochon), Town of Riverview
(Deputy Mayor Jeremy Thorn), Royal Canadian Legion,
IODE (National President Jane Cushing), and myself as the
Chairman of the New Brunswick Branch of the Monarchist
League of Canada. While each gave a short speech I only have
the text for mine. Sufficed to say they were all lovely tributes.

Seeing you all here I am reminded of the promise offered by the Queen in the year
2020 during the first days of the pandemic; "We should take comfort that while we
may have more still to endure, better days will return: We will be with our friends
again; We will be with our families again; We will meet again.

It is good to see everyone out today as we celebrate a women who has spent 70
years in public service. In the R.B. Bennett display there is a video recounting
another Canadian monarch's feelings about their jubilee and their many years on
the throne. In it they state "I don't know why they are making such a fuss about me
now, I have only done my best." I think the Queen would say something similar. It
is this willingness to do one's best that lies at the heart of citizenship.

During the 1995 Referendum there was an incident that was embarrassing to the
government of the day but that demonstrated the Queen's willingness to serve. A
Quebec radio DJ impersonating then Prime Minister Jean Chretien managed to get
through the palace switchboard and talk to Her Majesty. During their conversation
the fake Chretien asked the Queen if she would give an address urging Quebec to
stay in Canada. She stated she would be willing to help. It should be appreciated
how difficult such an address would be to write but she was willing to do it
anyways. She was willing to do her best for Canada.

A lot has changed in 70 years but in the words of Philip Larkin speaking during the
Silver Jubilee; "In times when nothing stood, But worsened or grew strange, There
was one constant good: She did not change."

Surprise Announcement by MLA Mike
Holland on a Jubilee Medal

During Mike Holland's speech he announced that the New
Brunswick Government has decided to issue its own Platinum
Jubilee Medal. Details on eligibility will be announced in the
near future but it is likely to focus on frontline personnel.

On another front there was a bit of a good news-bad news
story. I had submitted a proposal to the Treasury Department,
with Mike Holland's assistance, for the forgiveness of all, or
most, student debt in the province as part of jubilee
celebrations. Admittedly this was a long shot shot but it never
hurts to ask. As it turns out full debt forgiveness was not on
the table but the Treasury Department did decide that they
could afford foregoing interest payments. This was announced
as a government policy, rather than a tribute to Her Majesty,
which is fine with me. I had noted in my submission that if
debt forgiveness was considered it should be more than a
token amount. Did my efforts contribute to this policy?
Impossible to say, the inner workings of government can be
opaque at times but it should be noted that even advocates for
debt forgiveness were surprised when interest payments were
ended so take that for what you will.

Anyways, that is all the news and gossip from this small
corner of Her Majesty's Canadian realm.

Loyally Yours,
A Kisaragi Colour

Platinum Jubilee Calendar of Events for June in New Brunswick

6/1/2022

Jubilee celebrations are finally starting to heat up along with
the weather. Note that this is a partial list that may be
updated as I learn about other events taking place.
Unfortunately, trying to keep track of events across the
country is a bit too much for me so I will only be keeping track
of upcoming New Brunswick events.

Thursday, June 2

Flag Raising
[Fredericton] - The Queen’s Platinum Jubilee flag will be
raised in front of City Hall on June 2, 2022 at 10 am. Her
Honour, Brenda Murphy, Lieutenant Governor of New
Brunswick and Fredericton Deputy Mayor Greg Ericson will
be in attendance. The public is invited to attend. In addition
to the flag raising, details about the planting of a grove of
trees to commemorate the Queen’s Platinum Jubilee will be
announced. City Hall will be lit in purple from June 2-5.

Fascinator Making Workshops
[Saint Andrews] - The Wee Fabric Shop in Market Square is
hosting two fascinator making workshops (1pm - 3pm & 6pm
- 8pm) to help you get all decked out for the Royal weekend.
Suitable for all ages. There will be a “best fascinator” contest
on Saturday at the Algonquin if you choose to participate. $10
per person, per class.

Friday, June 3

British Pub Crawl
[Saint Andrews] - Kick off the Platinum Jubilee weekend with
a British pub crawl in historic St. Andrews by-the-Sea.
Participating pubs will be featuring their best British-inspired
dishes and drafts on special. List of participating pubs
available locally. 5pm to 10pm.

Saturday, June 4

Tree planting and Reception
[Hopewell Cape] - The Albert County Museum will be
holding a tree planting and reception starting at 1 pm to
honour the 70th year of the reign of Queen Elizabeth II. There
will be special guests, music, and a display of royal
memorabilia.

Afternoon Tea & Fascinators at the Algonquin Resort
[Saint Andrews] - Enjoy a selection of fine teas, homemade
finger sandwiches, scones and pastries by the Algonquin’s
pastry chef. $35+ per person. Seating is limited, so kindly
please reserve: james.may@algonquinresort.com. Wear a
fascinator if you are feeling fancy!

NB Youth Orchestra at KIRA Amphitheatre
[Saint Andrews] - Experience the internationally-acclaimed
New Brunswick Youth Orchestra on a stage like no other at
KIRA Amphitheatre. The Lieutenant Governor of New
Brunswick, Brenda Murphy, will be in attendance. Starts at
2pm.

Platinum Jubilee Gala Dinner at DrewHaven Town &
Country
[Saint Andrews] - To commemorate the Queen's seven
decades of service, DrewHaven (255 Water St) is hosting a
gala fundraiser dinner at 6:30pm with special guest
Lieutenant Governor of New Brunswick, Brenda Murphy,
with all proceeds going to relief for Ukraine. Enjoy a five-
course dinner with wine and cocktails, a live 3-piece band
featuring bagpipes and a silent auction featuring artwork
inspired by Queen Elizabeth II. $125 per ticket. Space is
limited to 80 guests, so kindly make reservations with
DrewHaven by calling or texting: 506-467-5508.

Sunday, June 5

Tree Planting Ceremony at Centennial Park, 9am
[Saint Andrews] - In honour of the Queen’s 70 years on the
throne, the Town of Saint Andrews is planting 70 trees
throughout the community. Mayor Brad Henderson and
members of council will be on site at Centennial Park across
from the historic Blockhouse to plant the final 70th tree, a
Royal Oak, to commemorate her Majesty at 9am.

Community Church Service
[Saint Andrews] - Archdeacon John Matheson is leading a
special Platinum Jubilee Church Service honouring Queen
Elizabeth II’s seven decades of service at the All Saints Church
located at 77 King Street. Service begins at 11am

Complimentary Community Garden Party
[Saint Andrews] - The community is invited to share
friendship, food and fun with neighbours as part of the
Platinum Jubilee celebrations directly following the church
service in the front lawn of the Anglican Parish Hall at 75 King
Street. The event is generously sponsored by DrewHaven and
begins at 12:30am.

Televised Coronation Service on CHCO-TV, 1pm and 6pm
[Saint Andrews] - The coronation of Elizabeth II took place on
June 2, 1953 at Westminster Abbey in London when she was
just 25 years old. Watch the entire ceremony on local
television station CHCO-TV (Bell Fibe 26, Bell Satellite 539,
Cable 126 and Ignite 133 or live-streamed on chco.tv) at 1pm
and 6pm.

Afternoon Tea at the Algonquin Resort
Enjoy a selection of fine teas, homemade finger sandwiches,
scones and pastries by the Algonquin’s pastry chef. $35+ per
person. Seating is limited, so kindly please reserve:
james.may@algonquinresort.com.

Thursday, June 9

Platinum Jubilee Concert
[Fredericton] - A Platinum Jubilee Concert in front of City
Hall will be held from 4:30 to 7:00 p.m, the same night as the
return of the Garrison Night Market. More details will be
released closer to the event.

Loyally Yours,
A Kisaragi Colour

Happy Victoria Day

5/23/2022

A redditor was kind enough to share a video of the fireworks
display put on yesterday evening at Dow's Lake, Ottawa.

As per personal tradition I treated my coworkers to birthday
cake on Saturday (per company policy everyone must work
that day so no one misses out).

I hope everyone has a great Victoria Day (whatever the
weather).

Loyally Yours,
A Kisaragi Colour

Her Majesty Anne II, Queen of Canada?

5/23/2022

Anne, The Princess Royal

There are sometimes calls for the
royal succession to skip the Prince of
Wales and for the throne to go directly
to Prince William. This has a great
deal to do with the continuing, and
arguably unfair, low popularity of
Prince Charles. While the succession
should not be based on popularity
contests which do nothing but debase
the position of head of state, perhaps
it would be informative to look at an
alternate succession plan that has
sometimes come up: the succession of the Princess Royal to
the Throne of Canada.

Anne Who?

Princess Anne is a member of the Royal Family who tends to
fly a bit under the radar. She has visited Canada thirteen
times since 1990 (five more than Prince Charles) but most of
these have been working visits which don't draw the same
level of attention. She is often noted as being the hardest-
working royal. In this regard she shares a similar attitude
towards her royal duty as the Queen. And, unlike another son
of Her Majesty, Princess Anne has never been even remotely
involved in controversy.

Why Change?

Don't get me wrong, I think the idea of a shared head of state
is a beautiful thing in the modern world which increasingly
seems bent on embracing division and the worse sort of base
emotions. But alas, even among monarchists this view isn't
universal and amongst the general population the desire for a
'uniquely Canadian' head of state isn't a fringe opinion. So
what arguments can be made for the 'Anne Succession'?

#1 A Canadian Would Become Queen

The monarch, by virtue of their position, is Canadian. That is
not what I'm getting at. The Princess Royal has a son, Peter
Phillips, who married Autumn Kelly of Montreal. Their two
daughters, Savannah and Isla, are both Canadian citizens.
This is noteworthy because it would finally put a nail in the
tiresome republican argument that the Royal Family 'isn't
Canadian'.

#2 Abolishing The Monarchy Is Harder
To Do Than Altering The Succession

I am well aware that a major factor protecting the monarchy
in Canada is the requirement for unanimous agreement from
the federal government and every province to abolish the
monarchy (informally, you would also need a referendum).
While, still difficult changing the succession to the throne is
marginally easier. This is the outcome of the 2013 Succession
to the Throne Act and the related court challenges. Simply
put; Canada doesn't have a succession law. We have a simple
principle of 'symmetry' where the monarch of the UK is also
the monarch of Canada. Changing this principle requires the
use of the general amending formula (seven provinces that
contain 50% of the population of Canada). Why wasn't this
required for the Succession to the Throne Act in 2013? Well,
that act didn't go against the principle of symmetry, it merely
confirmed it. The constitutional issues are still a little
unsettled (this, by the way, is 100% Prime Minister Mackenzie
King's fault) but as it stands now it would be easier to change
the line of succession than to abolish the monarchy.

I'm sure this would still leave die-hard republicans unhappy
but then again I'm not looking to make them happy and if a
change to the line of succession peels off nationalist support
for their cause I'll consider that an absolute win.

#3 The Royal Family Would Live Here

This seems like an obvious point but it bears repeating. Due
to the distances involved and the need to be invited the Royal
Family does not perform as many duties here as in the UK.
That is a simple fact. Likewise, the position of governor
general has never really been able to live up to its potential
due to its occupants having a very short term that neither lets
them pursue long term projects nor allows them to acquire
the respect to be an effective counter (and source of advice) to
the prime minister weakening the position greatly. With the
new Canadian royal family living in Canada both of these
problems are alleviated. The status of lieutenant governors
under such a plan is hard to foresee. Strictly speaking they
would be unnecessary but the provinces/Royal Family may
wish to keep them to share the workload.

Would Princess Anne and Her Family
Even Go For This Idea?

This is not an easy question to answer. As I noted the Princess
Royal takes her role seriously and has displayed dedication to
her obligations. Yet, when the Queen offered to grant her
grandchildren titles Princess Anne refused since she felt it
would hinder their future career. This would seem to indicate
that Anne wanted her children to have the option to pursue
their own path. Her son Peter Phillips went on to be involved
in the private sector with little involvement in what would be
termed 'royal duties'. Still, he has made appearances with
other members of the Royal Family and when he married
some care was taken so that he wouldn't remove himself from
the line of succession.

Conclusion

It is an entertaining 'what if' to ponder but as I stated before it
is not an idea I support. In time Charles shall become king
and I suspect he will surprise more than a few people by not
making a mess of it.

Loyally Yours,
A Kisaragi Colour

Blog Update: New Contributor

5/17/2022

Earlier today the maiden article was posted by a new
contributor to this site. He has chosen Lord Ludichris as
his pen name and is a UK citizen. As an 'outsider looking in' it
is expected he will bring a unique perspective to articles on
the Canadian monarchy. He will also be supplying articles on
the wider Commonwealth from time to time. He has stated
an interest in possibly getting into journalism in the future
and we hope that the practice here can help him with that.

This is the first new contributor in seven years. On that note,
The Maple Monarchists turns eight this month. We will
have to rustle up some cake at some point.

Loyally Yours,
The Maple Monarchists

2022 Conservative Party Leadership Race: Views on the Monarchy

5/17/2022

This article is a collection of responses from candidates for
the leadership of the Conservative Party of Canada regarding
the monarchy. It will continue to be updated as more replies
roll in.

I have again included a scoreboard for the candidates as well as a section for notable quotes.

Questions & Replies

The questions that were posed to the candidates are below.
The questions are largely the same as the last survey except
for the addition of question 5.

1. What are your views on the monarchy?
2. As prime minister would you make use of the Advisory Committee on Vice-Regal
Appointments that was active between 2010 and 2015?
3. In 2019 the government cancelled a program that mailed physical copies of the
Queen's portrait to any Canadian who asked free of charge. Would you restore this
program?
4. The government also removed the Queen's portrait from the lobby of the Foreign
Affairs Office and replaced it with paintings by Alfred Pallen. Would you find a
way to have both paintings and portrait share the ample wall space of the Foreign
Affairs Office lobby?
5. The current government has not committed to supporting the creation of a
Platinum Jubilee Medal to mark Her Majesty's 70th year on the throne. What are
your views on this?

Below are links to each candidate's reply and a short look at
any previous comments they may have made in regards to the
monarchy. Candidates who failed to qualify or withdrew are
included for historical reference.

Qualified to appear on the ballot
Pierre Poilievre
Leslyn Lewis
Jean Charest
Roman Baber
Patrick Brown
Scott Aitchison

No longer in the race
Leona Alleslev

Crown & Cap Scoreboard

Here I have ranked the candidates support for, or opposition
to, the monarchy. Keep in mind this is only my assessment
and your mileage may vary. Also, note that changes may occur
as the campaign goes on.

The crown score is out of five crowns with each candidate
receiving one crown for stating support for the monarchy
in their reply, one crown for having defended the monarchy
in Parliament, two crowns for outlining how they would
improve the monarchy's role in the future, and one crown for
having spoken in support of the monarchy outside of
Parliament.

The cap score is likewise out of five caps with one cap given to
a candidate for being opposed to the monarchy in their reply,
one cap for desiring a referendum on the monarchy, one cap
for opposing the monarchy in Parliament and two caps for
making the establishment of a Canadian republic a part of
their policy platform.

Leona Alleslev

Ms. Alleslev scored well on all points except
having spoken on the monarchy outside of
Parliament. Also, while she spoke of the
monarchy fairly often in Parliament she was
never in the position of having to defend the
institution.

Score:

Scott Aitchison

Mr. Aitchison missed out on a perfect score
only because he has never spoken about, let
alone defended, Canada's monarchy on the
floor of Parliament.

Score:

Jean Charest

Mr. Charest is interesting in that of all the
candidates he has had plenty of time to say
a lot about the monarchy but hasn't and his
score reflects this.

Score:

I would like to thank all of the candidates for getting back to
me. While I might disagree at times with the replies I receive
it is at least good to know that politicians still take the time
to reply to ordinary Canadians.

Loyally Yours,
A Kisaragi Colour

Conservative Leadership Candidates and the Monarchy: Jean Charest

5/17/2022

Just yesterday I received a reply from
Jean Charest to my survey of the tory
leadership candidates regarding their
views on the monarchy. Before getting
into the survey answers I will briefly go
over any statements Jean Charest has
made in Parliament or in the media. In
this case very briefly as I could not find
much. The only instance appears to be
a comment made during a previous
royal homecoming on how any protests
would not effect Quebec's image on the
world stage.

Jean Charest's replies to the survey are below:

1. What are your views on the monarchy?

"My position is consistent with the Party in maintaining our
ties with the Monarchy and retaining the Queen as a Head of
State. Constitutional questions involving the Monarchy are
not high priorities for Canadians with our current state of
the federation divided over issues like equalization and
resources."

2. As prime minister would you make use of the
Advisory Committee on Vice-Regal Appointments
that was active between 2010 and 2015?

"Yes."

3. In 2019 the government cancelled a program that
mailed physical copies of the Queen's portrait to any
Canadian who asked free of charge. Would you
restore this program?

"Yes."

4. The government also removed the Queen's portrait
from the lobby of the Foreign Affairs Office and
replaced it with paintings by Alfred Pallen. Would
you find a way to have both paintings and portrait
share the ample wall space of the Foreign Affairs
Office lobby?

"I would leave such a determination, as I would in any
individual department to the appropriate Minister. Should
each elect to post a portrait within their department such
issues would not pre-occupy me as Prime Minister nor
should they become national news."

5. The current government has not committed to
supporting the creation of a Platinum Jubilee Medal
to mark Her Majesty's 70th year on the throne. What
are your views on this?

"I believe Canada’s position should be consistent with the
Commonwealth in having one available. I received the
Golden Jubilee medal in 2002."

Jean Charest's positions would help fix damage done to the
institution over the last number of years but I am slightly
concerned over question #1. Being asked about what your
views on a topic and replying with party policy is a deflection.
Question #4 concerns me less as leaving ministers to handle
their own departments is a fair position to take.

Overall, I get the sense that Mr. Charest has an intellectual
appreciation for the monarchy but not a deep-seated love for
the institution.

Loyally Yours,
A Kisaragi Colour

<<Previous

Forward>>

Her Majesty Elizabeth II, Queen of Canada (1926-2022)

The Monarchist Angle to the Lisa LaFlamme Story

Dispute Over Jubilee Coverage.

Michael Melling; Republican or Ass?

Royal Residences: Fredericton Government House

Exterior

Interior

Gallery

Albert County Museum Jubilee Event: Speeches and a Surprise Announcement

Speeches by the Dignitaries

Surprise Announcement by MLA Mike
Holland on a Jubilee Medal

Platinum Jubilee Calendar of Events for June in New Brunswick

Happy Victoria Day

Her Majesty Anne II, Queen of Canada?

Anne Who?

Why Change?

#1 A Canadian Would Become Queen

#2 Abolishing The Monarchy Is Harder
To Do Than Altering The Succession

#3 The Royal Family Would Live Here

Would Princess Anne and Her Family
Even Go For This Idea?

Conclusion

Blog Update: New Contributor

2022 Conservative Party Leadership Race: Views on the Monarchy

Questions & Replies

Crown & Cap Scoreboard

Conservative Leadership Candidates and the Monarchy: Jean Charest

About

Archives

Categories

Dispute Over Jubilee Coverage.

Michael Melling; Republican or Ass?

Exterior

Interior

Gallery

Speeches by the Dignitaries

Surprise Announcement by MLA Mike Holland on a Jubilee Medal

Anne Who?

Why Change?

#1 A Canadian Would Become Queen

#2 Abolishing The Monarchy Is Harder​To Do Than Altering The Succession

#3 The Royal Family Would Live Here

Would Princess Anne and Her Family Even Go For This Idea?

Conclusion

Questions & Replies

Crown & Cap Scoreboard

About

Archives

Categories

Surprise Announcement by MLA Mike
Holland on a Jubilee Medal

#2 Abolishing The Monarchy Is Harder
To Do Than Altering The Succession

Would Princess Anne and Her Family
Even Go For This Idea?