Senate and Parliament Tour

Friday, May 26, 2023
Parliament Hill, Ontario, Canada
Today was my tour of the Parliament and Senate in Ottawa. I had last done this about 20 years ago. At that time the Library was under restoration and I don't have pictures from that visit. I remember being surprised how small the House of Commons was compared to television. 
At that time you could just show up for a tour. Now they have to be booked online but are completely free. They are also offered in a choice of English or French, both official languages. 
First I had the Senate at 10.45am. You have to go thru airport style security check before you can enter. 
The Senate is currently being housed in the former VIA Rail station that was in use until about the 1960s. It is very grand in its architecture and was previously used as conference centre. 
Parliament Hill is undergoing a 10 year renovation project so both the Senate and House of Commons have had to be relocated. All of the original furniture was brought over. 
Senators are not elected and can serve until age 75. Also they do not belong to a riding but simply to their Province so you have a choice of many Provincial Senators to reach out to. 
Any citizen can attend the viewing gallery while the Senate is in session and do not have to book ahead. No electronic equipment will be allowed inside. 
Just at noon I had my tour booked for the House of Commons. This is back at Parliament Hill and the visitors entrance has been constructed to the east of the House of Commons. 
You have to go thru the same security. Then you are led underground to the West Wing which is the temporary home during the 10 year renovation. 
This is where horse carriages would pull in so they constructed a new roof to house the chamber. I had a small group that just started with me until another family joined. 
Again anyone can just show up and ask to go to the viewers gallery when the house is sitting
Former Prime Ministers have their portraits made once they leave office but for some reason this takes several years for the family to choose and artist and style of artwork. 
Camera was damaged during biking so focus is not working properly 
See also Vlog (5 mins) - https://youtu.be/GWDG7-VBr8g
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2025-02-16

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