The Premier of Newfoundland and Labrador is offering condolences following the passing of a former Senator.

Tony Wakeham says Ethel Cochrane was a trailblazer for the province, noting she broke new ground as the first woman appointed to represent Newfoundland and Labrador in the Senate of Canada.

Appointed in 1986, she served for more than 25 years.

Flags at Confederation Building are being flown at half-mast and will remain lowered until sunset on the day of her funeral.

Provincial buildings in Stephenville will also fly flags at half-mast over the same period, in recognition of Cochrane’s connection to Port au Port East.