What does the “House Sitting” mean?
"The House sitting" refers to the formal gathering of Members of Parliament (MPs) within the House of Commons chamber in Ottawa for the purpose of conducting parliamentary business.
The "The House sitting" entails:
Conducting Parliamentary Business: When the House of Commons is sitting, it means that MPs have convened to engage in “House business” such as debating proposed legislation, discussing government policies and initiatives, and attending committees.
Question Period: One of the most notable aspects of a sitting is the daily Question Period. During this time, opposition MPs have the opportunity to question government Ministers about their actions, decisions, and policies. It's a crucial mechanism for holding the government accountable and promoting transparency.
Debate: The House sitting provides a platform for MPs to engage in debates on a wide range of topics. These debates can lead to the formation and modification of laws, as well as the formulation of national policies. They allow for the expression of diverse opinions and perspectives from representatives across the country.
Passing Legislation: Perhaps the most significant function of the House sitting is the consideration and passage of bills. Proposed laws go through multiple readings (3!), debates, and committee reviews before receiving approval from a majority of MPs. Once passed in the House of Commons, bills proceed to the Senate for further scrutiny.
Representation: The House sitting is a reflection of Canada's federal nature. It brings together MPs from various political parties, each representing different regions and constituencies across the country. This diversity ensures that the interests and concerns of Canadians from coast to coast are represented and addressed.
Schedules and Sessions: The House of Commons follows a specific schedule, with regular sessions and recesses. The length and frequency of these sessions can vary, but they generally follow a predictable pattern. It’s kind of like a school calendar— September to June with break weeks every month.
In essence, when you hear that "The House is sitting" in the context of the Canadian House of Commons, it means that the nation's elected representatives are actively fulfilling their duties and responsibilities in the legislative process. It's a symbol of Canada's commitment to democratic governance and the rule of law, as well as a forum for the expression of diverse voices and the shaping of the country's future.
Example of the Parliamentary Calendar