OTTAWA, ONTARIO--(Marketwired - Dec 4, 2015) - The Prime Minister, Justin Trudeau, issued the following statement today upon learning of the death of former British Columbia Premier Bill Bennett:

"On behalf of all Canadians, Sophie and I offer our deepest condolences to the family and friends and colleagues of former British Columbia Premier Bill Bennett.

"A savvy politician and businessman, the former Premier did a great deal to build the province of British Columbia and its reputation. His many contributions to the province included Expo 86, the SkyTrain, the Coquihalla Highway and Canada Place.

"He received the Order of British Columbia in 2007 for his many accomplishments.

"He was a very capable and hard working British Columbian who contributed enormously to his province and to our country. He will be remembered and honoured."