Senate Chamber

The Upper House of Canada's Parliament, the Senate plays a central role in our country's legislative process, examining and debating bills passed by the House of Commons.

Photo: © 2001 Library of Parliament

Entering the Senate Chamber for the first time can take one's breath away. Masterful stone and wood carvings, beautiful paintings, large ornate chandeliers, the gilt coffered ceiling, and brilliant red carpeting and accents all lend a sense of grandeur to this proud historic chamber.

Brilliant in royal red and gold, the Senate Chamber is where the Queen or her representative, the Governor General, addresses Parliament and gives assent to bills destined to become law. The Senate is also an equal partner in the legislative process: it is where Senators debate and revise bills passed by the House of Commons, investigate national issues, represent and protect regional, provincial and minority interests and introduce new legislation.

Photo: © 2001 Library of Parliament

Senators are appointed by the Governor General on the recommendation of the Prime Minister. Senators represent regions and provinces in order to balance the representation in the House of Commons. Less populated regions have a stronger voice in the Senate so as to ensure representation for regional and minority interests.

The 105 Senators come from a variety of backgrounds. Able to serve in the Senate until 75, they develop a thorough understanding of complex issues facing Canada, often through their work in Senate committees and their experience outside of the Senate.

As the "chamber of sober, second thought", the Senate plays an essential role in the legislative process, particularly in the review and revision of legislation passed by the House of Commons. The Senate's agreement is needed before any bill can become law.

The Speaker presides over the business of the Senate, assisted by the Clerk and other table officers. To the Speaker's right sits the government party, led by the Leader of the Government and to the left, the opposition, led by the Leader of the Opposition.

The thrones behind the Speaker are for the Queen or the Governor General and his or her consort. The red carpet, the gold offered ceiling, the massive bronze chandeliers and the intricate carved stonework highlight the Chamber as a place for ceremony and confirms its significance in Canada's Parliamentary system.