The Speaker of the House of Commons, the Honourable Geoff Reagan, along with his counterpart in the Senate, the Honourable George J. Furey, are hosting the Speakers’ Speech Writing Contest to celebrate the 150th anniversary of Confederation. The contest closes on April 21, 2017.

Through this national contest, students are being asked to mark the latest turning point in Canadian history, the 150th anniversary of Confederation, by writing a speech of their own answering the question: “What does Parliament mean to you?”

Three (3) finalists will be selected from each age category and, along with a parent or guardian will be flown to Ottawa for two days of special programming in the nation’s capital. The winners in each age group will be announced at a reception hosted by the Speakers in early June.

Students interested in entering the contest can visit the contest page to obtain further details and find out how to apply. Young Canadians are encouraged to submit their speech in the official language of their choice.

The rules as listed on the contest page are as follows:

•One entry per person.
•Open to Canadians between the ages of 12 and 17 (Applicants must be no younger than 12 and no older than 17 at the time of submission).
•Entries must be submitted in either English or French.
•Written submissions must be new, original work, with a focus on Parliament.
•All entries will be judged on originality and style, including grammar and spelling.
•Enter by April 21, 2017.
•Only the selected finalists will be contacted.
•Finalists must be accompanied to Ottawa by a parent or guardian.

If you do not receive a confirmation following your submission, please contact the Library of Parliament at [email protected]