Canadians shocked Harry and Meghan quit royal life completely, say they don't want to pay for their security
With Prince Harry expected to join Meghan Markle and baby Archie in Canada, several fans and critics in the North American country have chimed in on the discussion following the shock announcement of the couple's complete royal stepdown.
Although Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau declined to comment, news outlets were quick to weigh in on the discourse. "Yes, we're flattered to have you come stay. No, we don't want to pay for security," Christina Blizzard wrote in an opinion piece for the Toronto Sun. "You sense a great deal of pain and sadness in the Queen's statement. She deserved better. She tried so hard to welcome Meghan."
There is a sea of critics who have said Harry and Meghan are not welcome to settle in Canada, especially after concerns that their stay would cost taxpayers £5million [$10million] and would spur a constitutional crisis.
According to Daily Mail's James Gant, this is because Canada prides itself on not having any aristocracy and no British royal has previously settled there. Per state law, anyone offered a peerage in Britain is expected to give up their Canadian citizenship first. "The statement also didn't clarify who will cover the cost of their security, which has been estimated at around £600,000 annually," reported Canadian newspaper Globe and Mail. The statement didn't comment on security other than to say, 'There are well established independent processes to determine the need for publicly- funded security.'
"The Canadian government has not said if it will cover the cost of the couple's security if they decide to live in the country," the report added. "Prime Minister Justin Trudeau said this week that security costs were 'part of the reflection that needs to be had and there are discussions going on.'"
A recent poll in Toronto -- where Meghan has resided for seven years -- found that Harry is regarded as their favorite Windsor after Queen Elizabeth II.
Having said that, more than 75% of the populace is opposed to bearing the Sussexes' costs for security and other purposes. Two-thirds have said the royal family is losing or has already lost its relevance and 45% are of the opinion Canada should not continue as a constitutional monarchy.
Nonetheless, the Canadians' support for the Queen remains "deep, broad, and strong."