Former Madill Student in the House of Commons

Erin Gilchrist
I had the opportunity to be selected as a House of Commons page in 2010-2011. Over the term of my contract, I was able to serve Members of Parliament and other parliamentary officials during the proceedings in the House of Commons. As a page, I had the chance to learn about the workings of Canadian politics and of Parliamentary procedure from a unique perspective. I have also had the chance to meet other young people from across the country. It was an amazing year.
What I liked the most about my experience as a page was the opportunity it gave me to witness the political atmosphere of a minority government, as well as that of the majority government after the election in May. The day the election was called stands out in my mind as one of the most exciting and interesting experiences I have had. I was able to witness Speaker Peter Milliken’s retirement speech and I also had the chance to see the election process for the new Speaker, Mr. Andrew Scheer, at the opening of the new Parliament in June. Thanks to the Page Program, I am now a much more politically-informed and aware Canadian citizen.
Each year, 40 students are selected from high schools across Canada to come to Ottawa and work as pages in the House of Commons.
Can you picture yourself witnessing history on the floor of the House of Commons? If you can, please visit the Page Program Web site at www.parl.gc.ca/hocpage for more details!