ROYAL PORTRAIT UNVEILED

To mark the historic occasion of the coronation of Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II on June 2nd, 1953, the new official Canadian photographic portrait of Queen Elizabeth II was unveiled today by Lieutenant Governor Lynda Haverstock during a ceremony at Government House in Regina.

The portrait was taken by Ottawa photographer Michael Bedford at the Canadian Museum of Civilization in Gatineau, Quebec, during the Golden Jubilee royal visit in October 2002.

"Through the 50 years of her reign, Queen Elizabeth has fulfilled her role as Canada's head of state with exemplary distinction," Provincial Secretary Joanne Crofford said. "In the hearts of Saskatchewan people, Her Majesty represents honour, dignity, and leadership demonstrated with compassion and grace."

Minister Crofford also recognized the efforts of the members of the Saskatchewan Committee for the Queen's Golden Jubilee, many of whom were in attendance at the event, for their dedication and efforts since beginning their work 18 months ago. Today's event was the last in a series of celebrations that have been held since June 2002 in honour of Queen Elizabeth's accession to the throne.

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For More Information, Contact:

Michael Jackson Office of Protocol and Honours Regina Phone: (306)787-3109