Parliament Adjourned

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Yesterday, the Parliament of Canada adjourned for the summer. Parliament is scheduled to resume in September. This means that MPs will not be sitting in the House of Commons for nearly three months. 

During this time, MPs essentially go on summer break. However, almost all of them, or at least the ones that want to keep their jobs, are working during this ‘summer vacation’. 

It is common for them to take a week or so off for a vacation. However, soon after, they start working in their constituencies. Usually doing work for their constituents. Generally, this is when constituents can meet with their MP the easiest as they are not in the House during this time. During the day, generally, they are in the office. During the evening, MPs usually are out at events, celebrations, or any sort of other gatherings. This could be a wedding, a celebration of a milestone birthday (100th Birthday of an individual) or anything else of that nature. 

In regard to Ministers, although the House is not sitting periodically, they may be called to Ottawa to sort out any Ministerial affairs that need their attention. Otherwise, they too generally spend time in their own constituencies.  

One constituency this summer will get a new face to represent them in September. On June 24th, residents of Toronto-St. Pauls will head to the polls to elect a new member of parliament following the resignation of longtime Liberal MP and Cabinet Minister Carolyn Bennett. This race could show what a General election might look like. If Conservatives take the seat, it will make for a sweet summer for them as the seat has been a Liberal stronghold since 1993.

Thus, this summer could prove extra special for MPs as it could be the last until the next general election is called. Although the next election is not scheduled until fall 2025, some experts theorize that the next election could be called as soon as the fall of 2024 if not by spring 2025. We currently have a minority government and they do not usually last longer than 2 years. It has almost been three years since Trudeau was last re-elected. 

Although MPs may not be in the House of Commons, that doesn't mean that Canadian politics are done for the summer. Really, it’s just getting started.