Prime Minister Justin Trudeau today issued the following statement on the death of Hazel McCallion:

“Today I join the people of Ontario and Canada in mourning the loss of Hazel McCallion, a longtime mayor of Mississauga.

“My dear friend Hazel was an extraordinary woman with many threads on her bow. A businesswoman, athlete and politician, she was also one of the longest-serving mayors in Canada and around the world. Nicknamed “Hurricane Hazel” (Hurricane Hazellisten)) because of her bold political style, she was tireless.

“When she won her first term as mayor nearly 45 years ago, she assured the cheering crowd that during her tenure, people would be her priority. During her years of service, she has effectively put people first. During her decades of tireless and dedicated service, she was an inspiration to countless people, myself included. I will miss her friendship and will always fondly remember our conversations and the wisdom she has shown over the years.

« Hazel McCallion led the transformation of Mississauga during her tenure as mayor from 1978 to 2014, growing it from a dormitory community to Canada’s sixth-largest city. She believed in the growth of her community and its ability to become a city where people can both live and work, and she made this her passion. Thanks to his leadership, the city was known for its strong economy, vibrant multiculturalism, and excellence in public services.

“After 36 years as mayor, Hazel McCallion has been named Chancellor of Sheridan College and Special Advisor to the University of Toronto at Mississauga. She also chaired the World Health Organization’s Healthy Cities Conference and has been a strong advocate for ending discrimination against older people.

“Hazel McCallion’s accomplishments have earned her numerous awards and honors. She has received the International Economic Development Council’s Leadership in Public Service Award and the Key to the City of Mississauga. She was also made a member of the Order of Canada in 2005.

“On behalf of all Canadians, Sophie and I extend our condolences to Hazel’s family and friends, and the citizens of Mississauga. We will remember her as a pioneer whose political career and service to her community will inspire us all. Above all, we will remember her as a dear friend. »