COLLINS: It’s a no-brainer — Pierre, Justin or Charles?

I WAS THINKING THIS WEEK about the monarchy. What is its future — in Canada and other Commonwealth countries?

I firmly believe that the monarchy can continue to play a role in our country — a stabilizing role that goes beyond the everyday infighting of government politics.

I had always surmised that Charles would be a good king and he is certainly starting out that way. He and Queen Camilla are suited for each other, much more so than Charles and Diana, thrust together for the wrong reasons. I like that they are able to display their love for each other without trying to hide it, I like that they are active, visiting various charities they support, humble but strong in public, willing to accept responsibility for past mistakes and supporting a number of charitable causes. The king has long been a supporter of environmental causes, many of them kept low-key because that’s the kind of person he is.

I am equally, if not more impressed with the Prince and Princess of Wales. Their public persona has been well-crafted, alongside a genuine love of life and a desire to be the best servants they can be. A family unit that supports causes we can all get behind, a family dynamic that speaks to things we can all aspire to. Taking the kids for a walk, making time for the family and showing leadership in so many different ways. Dressing the part and yet coming across as ‘normal’ people — or as normal as you can be in that situation.