ottawa tourism parliament hill

• Visit Parliament Visit
• Français FR

Visit East Block

• Senate Tours
• House of Commons Tours
• East Block Tours
• Immersive Experience

Getty Images/Moment RF

Parliament Hill

Vast, yawning archways, copper-topped turrets and Gothic-Revival gargoyles dominate the facade of the stunning lime-and-sandstone parliament buildings. The main building, known as the Centre Block, supports the iconic Peace Tower and is undergoing renovations until at least 2028. Until then, visitors can still tour the House of Commons in the West Block and the historic East Block. The Senate is now in a new building close to Parliament Hill.

It's best to book your tour online.

Tours of the East and West block last around 40 to 50 minutes, depending on parliamentary activity, and may be subject to rigorous security checks going in; it's best to order your tickets in advance, but you can also get them on the day from the ticket office .

Free tours of the grounds are also offered. At 10am daily in summer, see the colorful changing of the guard on the front lawns, and at night enjoy the free bilingual sound-and-light show on Parliament Hill. No ticket required for either.

Visitors are welcome to watch debates in the Senate and the House of Commons whenever they are in session. Check the calendars on the website to find out when the chambers will be sitting. Again, expect lengthy security checks.

111 Wellington St

Get In Touch

613-996-0896

https://​visit​.parl​.ca​​/

Lonely Planet's must-see attractions

National Gallery of Canada

The National Gallery is a work of art in itself: its striking ensemble of pink granite and glass spires echoes the ornate copper-topped towers of the…

Canadian Museum of History

Allow plenty of time to experience this high-tech, must-see museum across the river, in Hull, Québec. Documenting the history of Canada through a range of…

Canadian War Museum

Fascinating displays twist through the labyrinthine interior of this sculpture-like, modern museum, tracing Canada's military history with the nation's…

Canadian Museum of Nature

This imposing baronial building houses one of the world's best natural history collections, which the vast museum brings to life with modern and…

Rideau Canal

In 2007, this National Historic Site became Canada's 14th location to be named a World Heritage site, and it remains one of the country's eight cultural…

Diefenbunker

17.73 MILES

During the Cold War, paranoid officials commissioned this gargantuan four-floored, secret subterranean bunker, designed to allow the government to operate…

Notre Dame Cathedral-Basilica

Built in the 1840s, this shimmering tin-topped house of worship is the oldest church in all of Ottawa and the seat of the city's Roman Catholic archbishop…

Laurier House National Historic Site

This copper-roofed Victorian home built in 1878 was the residence of two notable prime ministers: Wilfrid Laurier and the eccentric Mackenzie King. The…

Nearby Ottawa attractions

1 . Bytown Museum

Descend the stairs alongside the Ottawa Locks on Wellington St to find the Bytown Museum, sitting at the last lock before the artificial canal plunges…

2 . Ottawa Locks

The series of steep, step-like locks between the Château Laurier and Parliament Hill marks the north end of the 200km Rideau Canal, which flows all the…

3 . Senate of Canada

As part of the ongoing renovations on Parliament Hill, the Senate has permanently moved across the street into Ottawa's old train station. Tours last…

4 . Supreme Court of Canada

This intimidating structure strikes an intriguing architectural balance between its modern concrete shell and its traditional copper roof. Visitors can…

5 . National Gallery of Canada

6 . Notre Dame Cathedral-Basilica

7 . Royal Canadian Mint

Although Canada's circulation-coin mint is in Winnipeg, the royal mint holds its own by striking special pieces. The imposing stone building, which looks…

8 . Library & National Archives of Canada

The mandate of this monstrous concrete institution is to collect and preserve the documentation of Canada. Behind the tiny checkered windows lies a vast…

Peace Tower

Ottawa Canada Visitor Information and Guide

The Peace Tower is one of Canada's most emblematic symbols.  Visitors to Ottawa can climb the historic tower and enjoy a spectacular view of the city.

If you visit Parliament Hill between September and June, you can enjoy a carillon performance from noon until 12:15 on weekdays. There is a one hour recital beginning at 11 AM during the summer months.

The Peace Tower Carillon was inaugurated on Canada Day (July 1) in 1927.  It was built to commemorate the Armistice of 1918 and Canada's 60th anniversary of Confederation.  The carillon has 53 bells.

Visitors wising to visit the Peace Tower only must obtain a ticket in advance.  The free passes are available at 90 Wellington Street in Ottawa on a first-come first-serve basis.

Tickets are not required if you visit the centre block on a guided tour.

Travel Guide

• Things to Do
• Best Hotels
• Parks & Gardens
• Special Events & Festivals
• Best Restaurants
• Best Nightlife
• Active Pursuits
• Spectator Sports
• Planning a Trip

Ottawa › Attraction

Parliament hill.

NOTE: At the beginning of 2019, the Senate moved to its new temporary home in the Senate of Canada Building at 2 Rideau Street. Renovations to its permanent home, Centre Block, are projected to last at least 10 years.

The dominant site in downtown Ottawa, Parliament Hill is the focal point for most of Canada's national celebrations, including day-long events and spectacular fireworks on July 1, Canada Day. The Parliament Buildings, with their grand sandstone-block construction, steeply pitched copper roofs, and multiple towers are an impressive sight. In 1860, Prince Edward (later King Edward VII) laid the cornerstone for the original buildings, which were finished in time to host the inaugural session of the first Parliament of the new Dominion of Canada in 1867. As you enter through the main gates on Wellington Street and approach the Centre Block with its stately central Peace Tower, you'll pass the Centennial Flame, lit by then-prime minister Lester B. Pearson on New Year's Eve 1966 to mark the start of Canada's centennial year. In June, July, and August, you can meet the Royal Canadian Mounted Police (affectionately called Mounties) on Parliament Hill. They're friendly -- and love to have their photo taken.

If you're visiting the capital between mid-May and early September, your first stop on Parliament Hill should be the Info-Tent, where you can pick up free information on the Hill and free same-day tickets for tours of the Parliament Buildings. Between September and May, get same-day tickets from the Visitor Welcome Centre, at the foot of the Peace Tower. Tickets are limited, though, and there is no guarantee in the busy summer months or on weekends in spring and fall that you will get tickets for your first choice of time, or even day. If you're visiting in summer and are adverse to lines, try to book your tour for one of the evening sessions. During the busy summer months, drop by the information tent on the lawn in front of the Parliament Buildings between 9 and 10am. You can reserve a spot on the free tour of the Centre Block for later in the day, including some evening bookings, and avoid the long lines.

Tours of the Parliament Buildings last from 20 minutes to an hour, depending on whether Parliament is in session. Allow at least 2 hours for a full tour of Parliament Hill. The Parliament Buildings consist of 3 blocks of buildings -- the Centre Block, with its central Peace Tower, and the flanking West Block and East Block. This is the heart of Canadian political life -- the workplace of the House of Commons and the Senate. When the House of Commons is sitting, you can visit the public gallery and observe the 308 elected members debating in their grand green chamber with its tall stained-glass windows. Parliament is in recess usually from late June until early September and occasionally between September and June, including the Easter and Christmas holidays. Otherwise, the House usually sits on weekdays. The 105 appointed members of the Senate sit in a stately red chamber. The West Block, containing parliamentary offices, is closed to the public. You can tour the East Block, which has four historic rooms restored for public viewing: the original governor-general's office, restored to the period of Lord Dufferin (1872-1878); the offices of Sir John A. Macdonald and Sir Georges-Étienne Cartier (the principal fathers of Confederation); and the Privy Council Chamber with anteroom.

The Centre Block is considered to be one of the world's best examples of Gothic revival architecture, complete with the pointed arches, prominent buttresses, and contrasting stonework that characterize the style. Free guided tours of the Centre Block, which may include the House of Commons, the Senate, the richly ornamented Hall of Honour, and the Library of Parliament, are available in English and French all year. Guides tell animated stories and interesting anecdotes about the buildings and the people who have worked there. When Parliament is in session, the tours do not visit the House of Commons or the Senate, but visitors are invited to take a seat in the public galleries and watch the proceedings. Centre Block tour times vary throughout the year and can change without prior notice; call the Capital Infocentre at tel. 800/465-1867 or 613/239-5000 for information.

The imposing 92m (302-ft.) campanile of the Peace Tower is one of the most easily recognizable Canadian landmarks and dominates the Centre Block's facade. It houses a 53-bell carillon, a huge clock, an observation deck, and the Memorial Chamber, commemorating Canada's war dead. A 11m (36-ft.) bronze mast flying a Canadian flag tops the tower. When Parliament is in session, the tower is lit. One-hour concerts of the 53-bell carillon of the Peace Tower are presented weekdays in July and August at 2pm. From September to June, there is a 15-minute noon concert most weekdays.

Also in the Centre Block, the Library of Parliament is a glorious 16-sided dome hewn from Nepean sandstone, supported outside by flying buttresses and paneled inside with Canadian white pine. Designed in Gothic revival style, the library was opened in 1876. The center of the room is dominated by a white marble statue of a young Queen Victoria, created in 1871.

Between late June and early September, you can get free same-day tickets at the Info-Tent for a guided tour of the Parliament Hill grounds. Visitors will enjoy an introduction to some of the historical figures who have shaped Canada's past and present. Otherwise, you can wander around Parliament Hill and explore the monuments, grounds, and exterior of the buildings on your own with the help of a 24-page outdoor self-guiding booklet called Discover the Hill, available from the Capital Infocentre across the street from the Parliament Buildings. Stroll the grounds clockwise around the Centre Block -- they're dotted with statues honoring such prominent historical figures as Queen Victoria, Sir George-Étienne Cartier, William Lyon Mackenzie King, and Sir Wilfrid Laurier. Behind the building is a promenade with sweeping views of the Ottawa River.

One last attraction for summer visitors to the Parliament Buildings is Sound and Light on the Hill. Every evening between early July and early September, Canada's history unfolds and the country's spirit is revealed through music, lights, and giant images projected on the Parliament Buildings. This half-hour display of sound and light is free of charge, and limited bleacher seating is available.

- Frommer's Staff

Note : This information was accurate when it was published, but can change without notice. Please be sure to confirm all rates and details directly with the companies in question before planning your trip.

• All Regions
• Australia & South Pacific
• Caribbean & Atlantic
• Central & South America
• Middle East & Africa
• North America
• Washington, D.C.
• San Francisco
• New York City
• Los Angeles
• Arts & Culture
• Beach & Water Sports
• Local Experiences
• Food & Drink
• Outdoor & Adventure
• National Parks
• Winter Sports
• Travelers with Disabilities
• Family & Kids
• All Slideshows
• Hotel Deals
• Car Rentals
• Flight Alerts
• Credit Cards & Loyalty Points
• Cruise News
• Entry Requirements & Customs
• Car, Bus, Rail News
• Money & Fees
• Health, Insurance, Security
• Packing & Luggage
• -Arthur Frommer Online
• -Passportable
• Road Trip Guides
• Alaska Made Easy
• Great Vacation Ideas in the U.S.A.
• Best of the Caribbean
• Best of Mexico
• Cruise Inspiration
• Best Places to Go 2024

Frommer's Star Rating

About our system.

Frommer's only recommends things we think you will enjoy and that will make your trip both authentic and unforgettable. Our experts personally appraise each choice in terms of their overall enthusiasm for it.

Our star system does not denote hotel amenities but it does denote the level of our approval. A place with one star is worth a look—after all, it made the list. A rating of two stars means it's excellent, and three stars is the highest praise we give.

Six Ottawa eateries make Canada's 100 Best restaurants of 2024 list

Top-rated among the Ottawa six was Riviera, the classic, big-city eatery on Sparks Street.

You can save this article by registering for free here . Or sign-in if you have an account.

Article content

Six Ottawa restaurants cracked the prestigious 2024 Canada’s 100 Best Restaurants list released Monday night.

Top-rated among the Ottawa six was Riviera , the classic, big-city eatery on Sparks Street favoured by Parliament Hill’s denizens. Riviera ranked 28th this year, up from 49th last year.

The next highest Ottawa restaurant was chef-owner Marc Lepine’s sophisticated tasting menu destination Atelier on Rochester Street, which rose markedly from 88th last year to 43rd this year.

Subscribe now to read the latest news in your city and across Canada.

• Exclusive articles from Elizabeth Payne, David Pugliese, Andrew Duffy, Bruce Deachman and others. Plus, food reviews and event listings in the weekly newsletter, Ottawa, Out of Office.
• Unlimited online access to Ottawa Citizen and 15 news sites with one account.
• Ottawa Citizen ePaper, an electronic replica of the print edition to view on any device, share and comment on.
• Daily puzzles, including the New York Times Crossword.
• Support local journalism.

Create an account or sign in to continue with your reading experience.

• Access articles from across Canada with one account.
• Share your thoughts and join the conversation in the comments.
• Enjoy additional articles per month.
• Get email updates from your favourite authors.

Sign In or Create an Account

Also returning to the list were:

• The Centretown restaurant Arlo , where chef and co-owner Jamie Stunt runs the kitchen and sommelier and co-owner Alex McMahon is an unstinting advocate for natural wines (71st this year, 62nd last year);
• Supply and Demand , a quintessential neighbourhood restaurant on Wellington Street West where chef and co-owner Steve Wall specializes in small plates and pastas (75th this year, 63rd last year);
• and North & Navy on Nepean Street, where chef-owner Adam Vettorel serves elevated Northern Italian food (95th this year, 96th last year).

New to the list is the William Street wine bar Buvette Daphnée , which ranked 97th. Opened in late August 2023, Buvette Daphnée also cracked the Canada’s 100 Best Restaurants list of best new restaurants. On that list, it ranked eighth of 10 restaurants.

In a comparison of cities, Ottawa’s total tally of six restaurants on the list came far behind Toronto (25), Montreal (21) and Vancouver (18), but ahead of all other Canadian cities, including Calgary (4), Winnipeg (3) and Edmonton (0).

Jacob Richler, publisher and editor of the list, said in an interview that Ottawa’s showing this year proves that it’s “a good culinary destination.

“We’re fulfilling a mandate to recommend the best places to go,” Richler said. “Six restaurants is a lot of places to choose between for somebody who’s unfamiliar with Ottawa.”

Richler said that 150 judges cast votes for this year’s list and that the judges are distributed across the country in proportion to populations in regions and urban centres.

Each judge, including reporter Peter Hum, submitted a ranked list in early January of 10 favourite restaurants that they had visited in the previous year or so. At least three of the 10 picks had to be outside of the judge’s region.

Last year, local chef Briana Kim’s cutting-edge plant-based restaurant Alice fared best of Ottawa’s restaurants, ranking 31st. It didn’t make this year’s list, but only because Kim closed Alice several months ago with the intention of opening its successor, Antheia, later this year.

Two other Ottawa restaurants that made the 2023 list dropped off this year’s list. They were Perch , a tasting-menu restaurant on Preston Street that ranked 85th last year, and Gitanes , a French-influenced restaurant on Elgin Street that ranked 97th last year.

Richler said many judges cast votes for Alice, and it would have ranked in the high 20s had those votes counted. “We don’t recommend restaurants that are closed,” Richler said, adding that he was keenly looking forward to Antheia opening.

Richler added that he wants to visit Buvette Daphnée. “That room looks gorgeous,” he said. “The menu concept looks good too, but what a stunning spot. Wow.”

The Montreal restaurant Mon Lapin , which specializes in imaginative small plates and recherché wines, was this year’s top-ranked restaurant, as it was in 2023. Next were the Toronto fine-dining restaurants Edulis , Alo and 20 Victoria .

Each of the three Toronto restaurants also has a Michelin star to its name. Mon Lapin does not, as Michelin inspectors do not survey Montreal restaurants as they do the dining-out scenes in Toronto and Vancouver. The inspectors also do not consider restaurants in Ottawa.

Richler said the restaurants on this year’s list are very diverse. “There’s so many different kinds of dining represented,” he said. “It’s really a struggle to think of something that unifies them all, except for great cooking and great service and a super all-round experience.

“That’s the way I want it. To nominate a bunch of very similar restaurants would be unexciting for the consumer. To have a whole bunch of incredibly varied, different sorts of places, unified only by their incredibly high culinary standards, is a great thing.”

[email protected]

Postmedia is committed to maintaining a lively but civil forum for discussion. Please keep comments relevant and respectful. Comments may take up to an hour to appear on the site. You will receive an email if there is a reply to your comment, an update to a thread you follow or if a user you follow comments. Visit our Community Guidelines for more information.

Where to get Chinese food in Ottawa — according to five years' worth of Ottawa Citizen resto reviews

Military yet to decide on court martial for colonel accused of making derogatory comments about canadian forces leaders, national defence wins award for its efforts to hide information from the public, city council approves new penalty system for parking and automated camera tickets, police investigating after video suggests woman’s hijab removed at ottawa protest.

This website uses cookies to personalize your content (including ads), and allows us to analyze our traffic. Read more about cookies here . By continuing to use our site, you agree to our Terms of Service and Privacy Policy .

You've reached the 20 article limit.

You can manage saved articles in your account.

and save up to 100 articles!

Looks like you've reached your saved article limit!

You can manage your saved articles in your account and clicking the X located at the bottom right of the article.

• Asia - Pacific
• Middle East - Africa
• Apologetics
• Benedict XVI
• Catholic Links
• Church Fathers
• Life & Family
• Liturgical Calendar
• Pope Francis
• CNA Newsletter
• Editors Service About Us Advertise Privacy

Thousands pack Ottawa’s Parliament Hill for 27th annual March for Life

By Anna Farrow

Ottawa, Canada, May 10, 2024 / 16:00 pm

Thousands of pro-lifers packed onto Parliament Hill in Ottawa, Canada, and spilled out onto Wellington Street on May 9 for the 27th annual National March for Life.

The diverse crowd gathered on the Hill at noon with its members bearing both homemade and professionally crafted signs pledging them to stand fast for the unborn and vulnerable.

The march’s theme, “I Will Never Forget You” was taken from the prophet Isaiah’s poignant question: “Can a mother forget the baby at her breast?”

The rally and march were broadcast live by the U.S. cable network EWTN. (Editor’s note: EWTN is the parent company of Catholic News Agency.)

This year’s speakers included pro-life speaker and author Abby Johnson, President of 40 Days for Life Shawn Carney, and Campaign Life Coalition Vice-Chair Jeff Gunnarson.

The opening prayer was led by Father Daniel Szwarc, OMI, who traveled to Ottawa from the Arctic Circle together with three young women engaged in pro-life activities in their small Inuit village of Naujaat.

Diana Kringayark told the crowd that every week she and the other women buy baby products to distribute to 40 village families to show that “every baby is important.”

Ottawa Archbishop Marcel Damphousse encouraged the marchers to act with “courage, compassion, and conviction."

Conservative members of Parliament Cathay Wagantall and Arnold Viersen were the only federal politicians to address the crowd.

In her brief speech, Wagantall emphasized that advocating for the unborn and the vulnerable is particularly difficult for Canadian politicians. But she hailed the number of young people in the crowd as a sign of hope.

“If you think it is a battle out here, you know it is a battle in there,” the Saskatchewan member of Parliament said, indicating the Houses of Parliament behind her.

Angelina Steenstra of the Silent No More Awareness Campaign introduced Nathalia Comrie, a young woman who, at 17, was pregnant and felt that “abortion was the only choice my family would accept.” She said she was told that “everything would go back to normal after the abortion.”

“That was a lie,” Comrie said. After years of depression and substance abuse, she was introduced to the Sisters of Life, and through them to other women who, like her, had suffered as the result of abortion.

“I will never forget my son Kaeden. He is why I am silent no more,” Comrie said.

More in Americas

Haiti in danger of ‘a real genocide,’ priest warns

In the crowd of clergy, habited religious sisters, elderly, schoolchildren, and loud teenagers were women who had found themselves, like Comrie, in situations where they felt pressured and alone.

Christa Ranson came to the March for Life from Montreal because she knew what it was to have considered abortion.

Ranson had been scheduled to undergo an abortion on two separate occasions. The first time she was actually on the table being prepped for the abortion when she decided not to go through with it. The second time, after hearing her son’s heartbeat by ultrasound, Ranson decided she “just couldn’t do it.”

Ranson said she now tells her son: “I loved you when you were just a heartbeat.”

When asked why it was important for her to come to the March for Life, she told Canada’s The Catholic Register that it was to let women know there is a choice other than abortion.

(Story continues below)

Subscribe to our daily newsletter

“What a lot of people don’t realize is that, when you are on that table, those babies are living, they have a heart, they have feelings.”

“I want other women to know that even if it is difficult, it will be okay and it is worth it. If women are making the decision because of health reasons, or financial reasons, they should reach out. There are resources out there, there are doctors out there who will help.”

This article was originally published by Canada’s The Catholic Register and is reprinted here with permission. 

• Catholic News ,
• March for Life 2024

Our mission is the truth. Join us!

Your monthly donation will help our team continue reporting the truth, with fairness, integrity, and fidelity to Jesus Christ and his Church.

You may also like

Hospice leader in Canada promotes anti-euthanasia film: ‘My life’s work’

The president of Delta Hospice Society is promoting a new film to raise awareness of the “predatory doctor-assisted suicide regime” of the Canadian government.

How St. Marguerite Bourgeoys, first female saint of Canada, discovered her vocation

On Jan. 12, we celebrate the feast of St. Marguerite Bourgeoys, foundress of the Congregation of the Sisters of Notre Dame de Montréal.

Ireland’s March for Life draws thousands amid ‘soaring’ abortions

Ahead of Ireland’s elections, speakers urged march attendees to “think pro-life” this year. 

Reimagined tours during Parliament Hill rehabilitation

Parliament Hill is a major attraction for visitors to Ottawa, a symbol of the country’s democracy and freedom, and a beautiful part of the skyline in the downtown core of Canada’s capital. Important events, celebrations, and ceremonies are held on site and over 1.5 million people visit the Parliament Hill grounds every year.

An ambitious renovation project is underway to modernise the site to better meet the needs of visitors and members of government while preserving the heritage for generations to come. This is the largest heritage rehabilitation and modernisation project in Canada and will be a multi-year endeavour.

A historic renovation project

Ottawa’s Parliament Precinct comprises three main buildings that form a horseshoe shape: the West Block, the Centre Block (including the iconic Peace Tower) and the East Block. Designed in a Gothic revival style, the architecture includes many mythical and playful carvings known as grotesques, and the Peace Tower features a 53-bell carillon.

Traditionally, the Centre Block was the home of the House of Commons, the Senate, and the ornate Library of Parliament (the latter dates from 1876). The East and West Block contained heritage rooms used during the first 100 years of Canada's government, and offices for parliamentarians.

This decade-long project - Centre Block and the Parliament Welcome Centre are targeted for completion in 2030/2031 - aims to artfully blend the preservation of historic assets while modernising the infrastructure to ensure Canada’s Parliament buildings are carbon neutral and universally accessible to all visitors. The delicate work of preserving murals, stained glass windows and historic features has been achieved by painstaking digital screening and mapping of all historic artefacts.

The total restoration works also include essential maintenance and improvements to the grounds surrounding the Parliament Hill escarpment, including the planting of 70,000 new trees.

During the massive rehabilitation project, some buildings—including the Centre Block where most tours took place—are closed and their entire contents have been moved to long-term temporary locations. However, touring the Parliamentary Precinct during this unique and historic period is a fascinating chance to see the story of Canada preserved for generations to come.

Reimagined guided tours

While the Centre Block is closed, its functions have moved elsewhere and tours have followed suit. Individual visitors, groups and Parliamentarians can visit the beautifully refurbished interior of the West Block, which temporarily houses the House of Commons. Exposed stone walls and a newly constructed glass domed roof have been combined to great effect.

The Senate of Canada has moved just a short walk down Wellington Street. Its home is now a Beaux-Arts-style former train station constructed back in 1912 next to the Rideau Canal. Guided tours of the interior show how much of the original structure has been preserved while adapting to its temporary functions.

Reservations can be made through the online system or by telephone. Parliament tours are subject to Parliamentary activity and special events, and visitors need to pass through a security check before admittance.

Outdoor features and events

When visiting Parliament Hill during construction, you can still access the Centennial Flame which is located at the southern end of the grounds (towards the street). First lit in 1967, this monument commemorates Canada’s hundredth anniversary as a confederation. Several of the other monuments and statues on site have also been moved and can be seen elsewhere, such as the Famous Five statue, now on the plaza in front of the Senate of Canada building, near the Rideau Canal.

Before construction, many events and activities were held on Parliament Hill, including Canada Day celebrations, the Changing of the Guard ceremony, Yoga on Parliament Hill, and the Northern Lights Sound and Light Show in the summer. Some of these events are being held elsewhere or virtually.

Online resources

Whether you want to enrich your in-person experience or you want a preview before a future visit, there are many ways to experience Canada’s Parliament online, including:

• Parliament: The Virtual Experience takes you on virtual reality journey inside Centre Block pre-construction, including the beautiful Library of Parliament and Peace Tower.
• View a collection of videos and photos of Parliament Hill.
• Shop the online Parliamentary Boutique for unique mementos.
• Watch this Centre Block project construction video update to delve deeper into the rehabilitation project.

Most Recent

Celebrate spring Ottawa-style with the Canadian Tulip festival

Whitewater activities for groups & FITs in the Ottawa region

See more Ottawa in view Blog articles

General inquiries: 1-833-864-7839 [email protected]

Stay up to date

Stay up to date on upcoming events and ideas to plan your next trip to Ottawa with friends, family or on your own by signing up for the Ottawa Tourism Newsletter.

Our partners:

Language selection

• Français fr

Government of Canada supports tourism in the Ottawa Region

From: Federal Economic Development Agency for Southern Ontario

News release

FedDev Ontario enhances three Ottawa region tourism organizations with $530,000 investment

May 10, 2024 – Ottawa, Ontario               

With its historic landmarks, natural beauty and cultural festivals, Ottawa is a prime tourism destination in Canada. By attracting domestic and international visitors, the local tourism sector is contributing to good jobs and economic growth in the community and across Ontario.

Today, Marie-France Lalonde, Member of Parliament for Orléans, on behalf of the Honourable Filomena Tassi, Minister responsible for the Federal Economic Development Agency for Southern Ontario ( FedDev Ontario ), attended the opening of the 2024 Canadian Tulip Festival to announce a combined FedDev Ontario investment of $530,000 through the Tourism Growth Program for the Canadian Tulip Festival , the Ottawa Children’s Festival del la Jeunesse and South Nation Conservation . MP Lalonde was joined by the Honourable Mona Fortier, Member of Parliament for Ottawa-Vanier, and Yasir Naqvi, Member of Parliament for Ottawa Centre.

With an investment of $130,000, the Canadian Tulip Festival has added an expansion to the UV-lit tulip garden, located in the ByWard Market, a highlight of this year’s festival. The expansion includes giant artificial flower gardens and displays, all of which are illuminated by UV light at night. This expansion will attract visitors from all over, providing attendees with a large-scale immersive garden and unique pollinator-focused educational experience. It will also draw people to see and shop all the ByWard Market has to offer.

The Ottawa Children's Festival de la Jeunesse will receive a $200,000 investment to expand the festival from a four-day event to five days, which will include the addition of evening events and weekend interactive experiences and performances. This will help to attract new and diverse audiences and communities.

Through an investment of $200,000, South Nation Conservation will revitalize the original Findlay Creek Boardwalk to enable safe and accessible access to the Leitrim Wetland, a significant wetland and biodiversity hotspot for active outdoor experiences. This project also includes the installation of a new trailhead and signage.

The Government of Canada is supporting tourism businesses and organizations that attract visitors to the region while contributing to the local economy and positioning Canada as an all-season destination of choice.

“Our government is pleased to support tourism businesses and organizations such as the Canadian Tulip Festival, the Ottawa Children’s Festival de la Jeunesse and South Nation Conservation, which showcase the unique experiences and attractions of Ontario. These organizations provide distinctive tourism experiences that draw visitors from far and wide to enjoy. Congratulations to all recipients announced today!” – The Honourable Filomena Tassi, Minister responsible for the Federal Economic Development Agency for Southern Ontario

“Ontario’s tourism industry is an incredibly important economic driver and provides jobs for Canadians from all walks of life. Through the Tourism Growth Program, the Government of Canada is supporting local organizations like the Canadian Tulip Festival, South Nation Conservation, and the Ottawa Children’s Festival del la Jeunesse. As we continue to invest in the industry, we’ll help bring more domestic and international visitors to the region to discover all that it has to offer.” – The Honourable Soraya Martinez Ferrada, Minister of Tourism

“Investments in tourism are not only vital for economic growth, but they also strengthen the social fabric of a community and preserve its unique identity for future generations to enjoy. The investments announced today will draw more visitors to the Ottawa area, fostering a deeper appreciation for Canada's natural beauty and cultural heritage, while supporting the local economy." – Marie-France Lalonde, Parliamentary Secretary to the Minister of National Defence and Member of Parliament for Orléans

“Tourism in Ottawa is a gateway to understanding Canada's rich history, vibrant culture, and natural wonders, offering visitors a glimpse into the nation's past and present. The investments announced today are going to have a lasting impact on our city and our local community." – Yasir Naqvi, Member of Parliament for Ottawa Centre

“This funding allows the Canadian Tulip Festival to not only continue our free tulip tradition this May, but also to expand our celebrations of spring into another one of the City of Ottawa's iconic tourist draws, the ByWard Market.” – Jo Riding, Executive Director, the Canadian Tulip Festival

“Thanks to this investment from FedDev Ontario, the Ottawa Children’s Festival de la Jeunesse can at last achieve its broad-ranging plans to add programming and reach new audiences beyond our community.” – Catherine O’Grady, Artistic Producer, Ottawa Children’s Festival de la Jeunesse

“We would like to thank FedDev Ontario and our partners for supporting this important community project in the City of Ottawa. Along with the extension completed last year, this boardwalk revitalization will provide the community with safe, accessible access to the Conservation Area and offer excellent learning opportunities about the unique wetland habitat and the plants and animals that thrive within it.” – Michelle Cavanagh, Team Lead, South Nation Conservation

Quick facts

The Canadian Tulip Festival was established in 1953 to celebrate the historic royal gift of tulips from the Dutch to Canadians immediately following the Second World War, as a symbol of international friendship. The Festival preserves the memorable role of the Canadian troops in the liberation of the Netherlands and Europe, as well as commemorates the birth of Dutch Princess Margriet in Ottawa during World War II—the only royal personage ever born in Canada. In 2023, the Canadian Tulip Festival welcomed 416,000 visitors across 11 days.

Incorporated in 1985, the Ottawa Children's Festival de la Jeunesse delivers live performing arts experiences for young audiences to foster creativity while promoting individual expression. Each year, the festival welcomes approximately 15,000 visitors from all over to experience the finest quality theatre, dance and music for young audiences.

Established in 1947, South Nation Conservation welcomes approximately 200,000 visitors each year to its 4,400 km 2 of land in Eastern Ontario. The organization has led hundreds of stewardship projects to protect or improve natural resources.

Delivered by Canada’s regional development agencies, the Tourism Growth Program is providing $108 million, over three years, directly to businesses and organizations to help diversify regional economies by investing in tourism products and experiences that will encourage visitation to and within Canada. In southern Ontario, FedDev Ontario is delivering over $30 million through the program.

Since 2015, the Government of Canada, through FedDev Ontario, has invested over $415 million in more than 1,440 tourism-related businesses and organizations, estimated to create over 4,700 jobs and maintain over 20,000 jobs. 

Associated links

• The Canadian Tulip Festival
• The Ottawa Children’s Festival de la Jeunesse
• South Nation Conservation
• FedDev Ontario
• Tourism Growth Program in southern Ontario

Edward Hutchinson Press Secretary Office of the Minister responsible for the Federal Economic Development Agency for Southern Ontario [email protected]

Media Relations FedDev Ontario [email protected]

Stay Connected

Subscribe to FedDev Ontario's Southern Ontario Spotlight newsletter , featuring economic development news and updates from across the region.

Follow us on Twitter , Facebook , Instagram and LinkedIn for more information on how we are growing businesses, cultivating partnerships and building strong communities in southern Ontario. 

Page details

• Newsletters
• News Insiders

Chromeo and Maestro Fresh Wes among acts headed to Ottawa concert on Canada Day

By The Canadian Press

Posted May 14, 2024 08:00:00 AM.

Last Updated May 14, 2024 10:40:29 AM.

OTTAWA — Funk masters Chromeo, rap legend Maestro Fresh Wes and rock band Metric are headed to Ottawa for Canada Day.

Canadian Heritage says they’ve booked an eclectic lineup of 11 acts for a night of festivities at LeBreton Flats Park in the nation’s capital near Parliament Hill.

Others on the roster include Calgary dance singer Kiesza, Halifax alt-pop duo Neon Dreams and Quebec rapper Fouki.

“Canada Day: Feel the Rhythm!” is set to begin at 8 p.m. with Canadian TV and radio personality Isabelle Racicot as host.

The show will broadcast live on CBC and CBC Gem, as well as Radio-Canada ICI Tele and ICI tou.tv.

Ahead of the concert, viewers can vote online for their favourite songs by Fouki and Metric, which they will perform on the broadcast. The poll closes on May 28.

This report by The Canadian Press was first published May 14, 2024.

The Canadian Press

Note to readers: This is a corrected story. A previous version said the event will be held at Parliament Hill. In fact, it is near Parliament Hill.

Top Stories

Ottawa Fire Services (OFS) said a two-alarm blaze in Alta Vista is now under control after a resident made a harrowing escape and a firefighter was injured. At around 9:11 a.m., OFS received a 9-1-1...

Police in Gananoque are asking the public if they have seen a 15-year-old named James. He has been missing since March 25 and there is concern for his wellbeing. James was last wearing a grey hoodie,...

Long-time TSN anchor Darren Dutchyshen passed away on Wednesday at the age of 57, Bell Media announced. "Darren Dutchyshen was a legend of Canadian sports broadcasting, a great teammate, and an...

The unofficial start of summer is upon the nation's capital. The Victoria Day long weekend means there are some schedule changes and closures to be aware of. Are grocery stores open this weekend? Most...

Most Watched Today

New legislation will see anyone convicted of impaired driving causing death lose their license for life. As well anyone convicted of impaired driving will now have to install an ignition interlock device in their vehicle upon first offence.

Pro-Palestinian protestors gathered outside Ottawa City Hall as the Israeli flag was raised for Israel's Independence Day.

Ontario Provincial Police are offering a $50,000 reward in hopes of identifying a baby girl who was found dead in the Grand River near Haldimand County almost two years ago.

CityNews' Sports reporter Lindsay Dunn spoke with Blue Jays' infielder Justin Turner and his wife Kourtney about her singing the national anthem on Mothers' Day ahead of the couple welcoming their first child to the world.

Kittens are certainly cute and cuddly but caring for them is not so simple, especially if you find one or a litter of baby cats. Toronto Humane Society has tips on what you should do when coming across a litter of kittens.

EWTN News, Inc. is the world’s largest Catholic news organization, comprised of television, radio, print and digital media outlets, dedicated to reporting the truth in light of the Gospel and the Catholic Church.

• National Catholic Register
• News Agencies
• Catholic News Agency
• CNA Deutsch
• ACI Afrique
• ACI Digital
• Digital Media
• ChurchPOP Español
• ChurchPOP Italiano
• ChurchPOP Português
• EWTN News Indepth
• EWTN News Nightly
• EWTN Noticias
• EWTN Pro-life Weekly
• Register Radio

Get HALF OFF the Register!

National Catholic Register News https://www.ncregister.com/cna/thousands-pack-ottawa-s-parliament-hill-for-27th-annual-march-for-life

• Synod on Synodality
• Most Popular
• Publisher’s Note
• College Guide
• Commentaries
• Culture of Life
• Arts & Entertainment
• Publisher's Note
• Letters to the Editor
• Support the Register
• Print subscriptions
• E-Newsletter Sign-up
• EWTN Religious Catalogue

Thousands Pack Ottawa’s Parliament Hill for 27th Annual March for Life

This year’s speakers included pro-life speaker and author Abby Johnson, President of 40 Days for Life Shawn Carney, and Campaign Life Coalition Vice-Chair Jeff Gunnarson.

Thousands of pro-lifers packed onto Parliament Hill in Ottawa, Canada, and spilled out onto Wellington Street on May 9 for the 27th annual National March for Life.

The diverse crowd gathered on the Hill at noon with its members bearing both homemade and professionally crafted signs pledging them to stand fast for the unborn and vulnerable.

The march’s theme, “I Will Never Forget You” was taken from the prophet Isaiah’s poignant question: “Can a mother forget the baby at her breast?”

Participants in the Ottawa, Canada, March for Life on May 9, 2024, sing the national anthem. Credit: Peter Stockland

The rally and march were broadcast live by the U.S. cable network EWTN. (Editor’s note: EWTN is the parent company of Catholic News Agency.)

The opening prayer was led by Father Daniel Szwarc, OMI, who traveled to Ottawa from the Arctic Circle together with three young women engaged in pro-life activities in their small Inuit village of Naujaat.

Diana Kringayark told the crowd that every week she and the other women buy baby products to distribute to 40 village families to show that “every baby is important.”

Diana Kringayark shares about her pro-life ministry in Naujaat, Nunavut, at the Ottawa March for Life on May 9, 2024. Credit: Peter Stockland

Ottawa Archbishop Marcel Damphousse encouraged the marchers to act with “courage, compassion, and conviction."

Conservative members of Parliament Cathay Wagantall and Arnold Viersen were the only federal politicians to address the crowd. 

In her brief speech, Wagantall emphasized that advocating for the unborn and the vulnerable is particularly difficult for Canadian politicians. But she hailed the number of young people in the crowd as a sign of hope.

“If you think it is a battle out here, you know it is a battle in there,” the Saskatchewan member of Parliament said, indicating the Houses of Parliament behind her.

Angelina Steenstra of the Silent No More Awareness Campaign introduced Nathalia Comrie, a young woman who, at 17, was pregnant and felt that “abortion was the only choice my family would accept.” She said she was told that “everything would go back to normal after the abortion.” 

Nathalia Comrie shares the story of her abortion and the support she received from Silent No More Awareness Campaign and the Sisters of Life at the Ottawa, Canada, March for Life on May 9, 2024. Credit: Peter Stockland

“That was a lie,” Comrie said. After years of depression and substance abuse, she was introduced to the Sisters of Life, and through them to other women who, like her, had suffered as the result of abortion.

“I will never forget my son Kaeden. He is why I am silent no more,” Comrie said.

In the crowd of clergy, habited religious sisters, elderly, schoolchildren, and loud teenagers were women who had found themselves, like Comrie, in situations where they felt pressured and alone.

Christa Ranson came to the March for Life from Montreal because she knew what it was to have considered abortion.

Thousands gather to hear opening speeches at the 27th annual National March for Life in Ottawa, Canada, on May 9, 2024. Credit: Peter Stockland

Ranson had been scheduled to undergo an abortion on two separate occasions. The first time she was actually on the table being prepped for the abortion when she decided not to go through with it. The second time, after hearing her son’s heartbeat by ultrasound, Ranson decided she “just couldn’t do it.”

Ranson said she now tells her son: “I loved you when you were just a heartbeat.”

When asked why it was important for her to come to the March for Life, she told Canada’s The Catholic Register that it was to let women know there is a choice other than abortion.

Thousands gather on Parliament Hill in Ottawa, Canada, for the 27th annual National March for Life on May 9, 2024. Credit: Peter Stockland

“What a lot of people don’t realize is that, when you are on that table, those babies are living, they have a heart, they have feelings.”

“I want other women to know that even if it is difficult, it will be okay and it is worth it. If women are making the decision because of health reasons, or financial reasons, they should reach out. There are resources out there, there are doctors out there who will help.”

This article was originally published by Canada’s The Catholic Register and is reprinted here with permission. 

• march for life
• Related Stories
• Latest News

Colombians March Simultaneously in Multiple Cities to Demand End to Abortion

The simultaneous pro-life demonstrations took place in Bogotá, Medellín, Cali, Cúcuta, Montería, Pereira, Cumaral, and scores of other cities.

March for Life in Spain Takes the Mask Off Culture of Death

The event concluded with releasing balloons into the sky and a live ultrasound of a baby at 25 weeks, whose beating heart was all that could be heard.

State-Level Marches for Life Bring Message of Hope to State Capitals

Marchers in Kentucky, Kansas and Indiana kicked off 2024’s state-level march for life demonstrations last week.

Cardinal O’Connor Life Conference Held at Georgetown

The conference takes place every year at Georgetown University on the Saturday of the weekend closest to the March for Life in Washington, DC.

St. Gianna, ‘Beautiful Witness of Hope,’ Offers Lessons Ahead of National Eucharistic Pilgrimage and Jubilee 2025

Italian saint canonized 20 years ago testifies to a life well lived, walking with Christ.

Thomas Aquinas College Goes Off the Grid with Green Power Plan

A sequestered Catholic college in the foothills of California launched an energy program that has nearly eliminated the college’s carbon footprint while saving $600,000 a year, giving the school more reliable energy than the state power grid.

Cardinal Pizzaballa Visits Gaza in Show of Support, Solidarity With ‘Suffering Population’

The clergy traveled to bring a message of solidarity and support.

How the Catholic Church Sees the Ordination of an Orthodox Church Deaconess

COMMENTARY: Any consideration of women in the diaconate must be grounded in a thorough understanding of the Catholic Church's tradition and divine revelation.

Catholic Singer Dana Scallon to Receive Highest Honor Vatican Bestows on a Layperson

Watch live online as Scallon is named a dame of the Equestrian Order of St. Gregory the Great, established in 1831, by Pope Gregory XVI.

Toronto Catholic Schools Allow Pride Flag, Reject Pro-Life Flag

This is not just about a flag — it’s about the views being taught inside Catholic schools.

Join Bishop Barron’s Challenge Campaign: 50,000 Rosaries in May

Word on Fire and Hallow team up to encourage Catholics around the world to pray the Rosary

Full Text: Harrison Butker of Kansas City Chiefs Graduation Speech

Chiefs’ harrison butker chides catholic leaders in benedictine college commencement address, dear pope francis, come to america, unity in what, tale of 2 tweets: the real reason to ban surrogacy now, home-run chapel veil company sees 2,000% growth in 10 years, chicago priest apologizes for same-sex blessing, saying it violated church norms, australian archbishop faces criticism over pastoral letter on human dignity, why do so many catholics use contraception experts weigh in, pro-life activist lauren handy sentenced to over four years in prison under face act, subscription options.

Subscriber Service Center Already a subscriber? Renew or manage your subscription here .

Subscribe and Save HALF OFF! Start your Register subscription today.

Give a Gift Subscription Bless friends, family or clergy with a gift of the Register.

Order Bulk Subscriptions Get a discount on 6 or more copies sent to your parish, organization or school.

Sign-up for E-Newsletter Get Register Updates sent daily or weeklyto your inbox.

• Visit Parliament Visit
• Français FR

Date selection

Need help reserving your tickets?

Please call the Tour Reservations Office at 613-996-0896 for assistance.

Bag restrictions for visitors

Only one small bag is permitted per visitor.

Guided tours of the Senate are located at the Senate of Canada Building, one block away from Parliament Hill.

May 16, 2024

House of commons guided tour tickets at west block — english.

• There are no English tour tickets available on this date.

Loophole leaves taxpayers picking up tab for MP travel

Commons picked up $84,000 tab for travel by 'designated travellers,' often mps' spouses.

Social Sharing

A loophole in the House of Commons' spending rules has allowed MPs travelling to party conventions to bill taxpayers for more than half a million dollars over the past year — even though House of Commons rules normally prohibit MPs from charging expenses linked to partisan political activity.

Since May 2023, MPs have charged to the House of Commons $538,314 in travel, accommodation, meals and incidental costs associated with attending caucus meetings held in connection with party conventions — including more than $84,000 for travel by "designated travellers," often MPs' spouses.

Expense claims filed to the Senate by seven Conservative senators for travel, accommodation and per diems added another $26,293 to the total.

Conservative MPs racked up 79 per cent of the spending by MPs. They billed the House of Commons $426,283 to attend a caucus meeting associated with the Conservative Party's policy convention in Quebec City in September 2023, including $331,699 for travel, $71,408 for accommodations and $21,053 for meals and incidentals.

Conservative MPs were the only ones to bill Parliament for spouses' travel to a caucus meeting connected to a party convention during that time period.

Conservative Leader Pierre Poilievre did not file an expense claim to the House of Commons from his MP's budget for travel to Quebec City.

New Democratic Party MPs collectively filed the second highest total in expenses; they billed Parliament $83,087 to send MPs and a dozen of their employees to a caucus meeting associated with the party's convention in Hamilton in October 2023.

One of NDP Leader Jagmeet Singh's employees charged an expense claim to Singh's House of Commons MP's budget, but Singh himself did not.

The Bloc Québécois, whose MPs are all located in Quebec, billed the House of Commons $28,943 for travel to a caucus meeting linked to the party's convention in Drummondville, Que., in May 2023. Leader Yves-François Blanchet was among five Bloc MPs who didn't file claims for travel to Drummondville.

In a small number of cases, the expense claims filed by MPs from different parties included stops in Ottawa and other cities, or tacked on other activities like language training.

The Liberal Party is the only party recognized in the House whose MPs did not file expenses for attending a caucus meeting connected to a convention in the past year.

Liberal House leader says loophole should be closed

While a handful of Liberal MPs' staffers billed the House of Commons for travel from the riding to Ottawa at the same time the party was holding its convention in Ottawa, the party did not hold a caucus meeting in connection with the convention. Most MPs were already in Ottawa at the time because the House of Commons sat the week before and after the May convention.

Liberal MPs have billed the House of Commons over the years for travel to caucus meetings outside Ottawa that were not associated with a party convention.

Should MPs have to pay back expenses for travel to a party caucus at a convention?

Government House leader Steven MacKinnon said the Liberal Party decided in the leadup to its 2014 party convention in Montreal not to take advantage of the clause in the House of Commons spending rules that effectively allows MPs to bill Parliament for travel to party conventions.

"We knew that that loophole existed, that caucuses were fine, conventions not fine and that Liberals wouldn't play that game of conveniently scheduling a caucus meeting around a party convention," MacKinnon told CBC News.

"This is a loophole. I would welcome a discussion around tightening or closing that loophole and I hope that that's what can occur."

• Federal politicians get pay bump, PM salary tops $400k
• House Speaker Fergus fined $1,500 for partisan video

The clause that basically allows MPs to bill the House of Commons for travel to party conventions dates back to November 2011, when the Board of Internal Economy — which oversees the management of the House of Commons and its spending — added a clarification to the rules that govern MPs' expenses.

Under House of Commons rules, MPs generally cannot charge expenses related to partisan political activity, such as party conventions or fundraising events. MPs who have used House of Commons resources for partisan purposes, such as filming political videos in their Parliament Hill offices, have been fined.

MPs can, however, claim expenses related to national caucus meetings, which are considered part of their parliamentary duties.

If a party holds a national caucus meeting at the same time and place as its party convention, MPs, their employees and designated travellers can charge travel, two nights of accommodation, meals and incidentals to attend the caucus meeting — effectively subsidizing their travel to the convention at the same time.

Conservative Party says its people followed the rules

The Senate prohibits senators from using Senate resources for a variety of political party events, including leadership events, but makes an exception for national conventions. The 13 Conservative Party senators are the only ones in the now largely independent 105-seat Senate who belong to a political party that holds national conventions.

Sebastian Skamski, director of media relations for Poilievre, said Conservative MPs followed the House of Commons rules in Quebec City. He said factors like the size of a party's caucus and where an MP lives can influence the cost.

"There is an unavoidable difference for an MP that needs to fly from rural Alberta to Quebec City to attend a caucus meeting than an MP that drives from Toronto to London to do the same," he said.

Skamski said that, unlike the Liberals, the Conservatives have often held their caucus retreats in Ottawa, resulting in no additional costs to taxpayers.

"The Trudeau government is in no position to lecture anyone and pontificate on the subject after expensing over $1.3 million on so-called 'affordability retreats,' which resulted in life becoming less affordable for Canadians," he said.

Skamski said the Liberal Party's caucus retreat in New Brunswick in 2022 cost taxpayers $428,258, some of it billed to the House of Commons and some expenses for staffers in ministers' offices and the Prime Minister's Office billed to those offices. Skamski said the figures include $43,292 in expenses for MPs' designated travellers.

The New Brunswick caucus meeting was not connected to a party convention.

Skamski said the Conservatives are not aware of any proposal to change the House of Commons expense rules for caucus meetings.

"If one were to be brought forward, we would of course consider it and additionally propose changes that would ban taxpayer funding for luxurious Liberal cabinet retreats outside of those held in government offices in Ottawa," he said.

NDP House leader Peter Julian said holding caucus meetings in other parts of the country is a common practice for political parties.

"We had caucus events in Hamilton so that we could continue to do the planning work needed for the coming weeks," Julian wrote in an e-mail. "All of the House of Commons travel guidelines were followed and we'll adhere to any changes to the rules made moving forward."

Bloc Québécois press secretary Joanie Riopel said the Bloc uses caucus meetings outside Ottawa to learn more about regional issues.

"Bloc Québécois MPs reunite in caucus outside of Ottawa, on the sidelines of conventions and other activities of the same type, and often organize tours to meet local actors and notably to discuss regional realities," she said. "It all has the goal that elected officials be the [most] efficient possible in their work as spokespeople in the House of Commons."

• Cost to taxpayers of protecting members of Parliament hits a record high
• Andrew Scheer broke Parliament's rules by filming partisan video in his office

MacKinnon, however, was sharply critical of the practice and said it wouldn't pass a smell test.

"Let's state the obvious here. They're not travelling to attend a caucus meeting. They're travelling to attend a national convention of the party, an intensely partisan event," he said.

"They get caught red-handed, not only creating some bogus caucus opportunity but also in bringing their spouses and others along with them for the ride and charging it up to taxpayers."

Political scientist calls on MPs to set 'example'

MacKinnon, who sits on the Board of Internal Economy (BOIE), said the board should consider closing the loophole and Conservative MPs should consider repaying the House of Commons.

Geneviève Tellier, professor of political studies at the University of Ottawa, said Parliament makes a distinction between the parliamentary and the political activities of MPs for a reason, but the House of Commons is also free to adopt its own rules.

"The decision is a bit surprising for me because I would have thought that there are maybe other priorities, other needs within Parliament that need funding, but they don't have the funding to do so," she said.

Tellier also questioned why Conservative MPs are billing the House of Commons for travel to a party convention, including by designated travellers, when the party's coffers are well stocked.

"Probably it would be better for them to set the example and say we don't go that way, we don't authorize that type of spending," she said. "They have the money anyway to pay for the travel of people that they want for their convention from the party funds."

Clarifications

• A previous version of this story said Conservative MPs were the only ones to bill Parliament for spouses' travel to a caucus meeting. In fact, the Conservatives were the only ones to bill Parliament for spouses' travel to a caucus meeting connected to a convention since May 2023. The story has been updated. May 15, 2024 12:02 PM ET

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Senior reporter

Award-winning reporter Elizabeth Thompson covers Parliament Hill. A veteran of the Montreal Gazette, Sun Media and iPolitics, she currently works with the CBC's Ottawa bureau, specializing in investigative reporting and data journalism. She can be reached at: [email protected].

• Follow Elizabeth Thompson on Twitter

TSN broadcaster Darren Dutchyshen dies at age 57

Teen who vanished 26 years ago discovered in nearby neighbour’s cellar, where to get chinese food in ottawa — according to five years' worth of ottawa citizen resto reviews, you said it: disgusted by ps unions, smiths falls man facing sexual assault charges after being arrested by gatineau police.

Here are today's Ottawa Sun letters to the editor.

You can save this article by registering for free here . Or sign-in if you have an account.

Article content

DISGUSTED BY PS UNIONS

Subscribe now to read the latest news in your city and across Canada.

• Exclusive sports coverage by Bruce Garrioch, Ken Warren and Tim Baines, in-depth crime and news from Gary Dimmock and city life coverage from arts writers Lynn Saxberg and Peter Hum. Plus, daily newsletters and events.
• Unlimited online access to Ottawa Sun and 15 news sites with one account.
• Ottawa Sun ePaper, an electronic replica of the print edition to view on any device, share and comment on.
• Daily puzzles, including the New York Times Crossword.
• Support local journalism.

Create an account or sign in to continue with your reading experience.

• Access articles from across Canada with one account.
• Share your thoughts and join the conversation in the comments.
• Enjoy additional articles per month.
• Get email updates from your favourite authors.

Sign In or Create an Account

You said it: disgusted by ps unions back to video.

Re: Public service unions promise ’summer of discontent’ over in-office policy, online, May 8

I am so discouraged and disgusted with the behaviour of the public service unions and the workers who don’t want to go to work at their offices. This situation is completely ridiculous and spinning out of control.

They have cushy, low-stress jobs with great pay and benefits. They could have it a lot tougher working in the private sector, where productivity, results and attendance are expected.

Unions came about more than 100 years ago to help people who worked in horrendous and unsafe conditions with very low pay and no benefits.

These people today should be very grateful to have it as good as they do. It’s called work for a reason.

I surely hope our government will stay strong and not give in to those with huge senses of entitlement. Perhaps the upset workers would be happier somewhere else and let people who want to work take their jobs.

I personally think unions today are for construction workers, loggers, miners and those who work in tough, physically demanding jobs. Not office workers, or teachers for that matter.

CONSTANCE BAY

REX WILL BE MISSED

Canada has lost an iconic journalist with few peers in Canada. This brilliant Rhodes Scholar never lost his sense of humour, developed in Newfoundland. Rex Murphy wrote with wit and often thinly veiled sarcasm, but in a manner easily understandable to average Canadians.

Rex truly loved Canada, and that came across in his articles. Rex was no fan of Prime Minister Justin Trudeau, who often was the subject of his excellent articles.

If there was ever a Canadian truly deserving of the Order of Canada, but who never had that order bestowed, that person is Rex Murphy.

Like hundreds of thousands of Canadians and others around the world, I will miss Rex.

LARRY COMEAU

WORLD A LITTLE EMPTIER

Christopher Pratt, Gordon Pinsent, now Rex Murphy.

This world feels a little emptier.

We love you, Newfoundland.

ROD PACKWOOD

HAVE YOUR SAY

Your letters are welcome, at: [email protected] a .   Include your first and last name   AND city/town. Keep your letters short — and please   try to be civil , even when criticizing or disagreeing. We edit for accuracy, length, clarity and legal concerns.

Postmedia is committed to maintaining a lively but civil forum for discussion. Please keep comments relevant and respectful. Comments may take up to an hour to appear on the site. You will receive an email if there is a reply to your comment, an update to a thread you follow or if a user you follow comments. Visit our Community Guidelines for more information.

This website uses cookies to personalize your content (including ads), and allows us to analyze our traffic. Read more about cookies here . By continuing to use our site, you agree to our Terms of Service and Privacy Policy .

You've reached the 20 article limit.

You can manage saved articles in your account.

and save up to 100 articles!

Looks like you've reached your saved article limit!

You can manage your saved articles in your account and clicking the X located at the bottom right of the article.