As part of UNICEF's Kids take over in Canada, Angelo Iacono welcomed Guy Philippe Helou to the Parliament of Canada for a unique experience. He gave him the opportunity to express himself on this webpage. The following text is what Guy Philippe Helou, 17 years old, wanted to share.
My Day in Ottawa
By Guy Philippe Helou
Today I will talk to you about my wonderful day in Ottawa, in Parliament, with Alexandra Jacquet and Angelo Iacono.
It all started when I arrived in Parliament around 10:00 a.m. I met Ms. Jacquet and we immediately went to Mr. Iacono’s parliamentary office. That’s when my wonderful day of immersion began. We started with a visit to one of Parliament’s libraries, a place where MPs go to work quietly. We then went to the building where the House of Commons is located. We toured the building and visited the library that survived the fire, the only remaining part of the building made of wood.
After that, we went up to the floor where the chamber is located. We waited for Mr. Iacono to get out of the Liberal caucus so that we could meet him. The three of us went to the lounge where MPs can talk and sat down. I then began asking Mr. Iacono a few questions. I saw the Hon. Mélanie Joly pass by, so I stopped her and we talked briefly before taking pictures. We then had lunch while waiting for question period to start. With that, my day of immersion was over. I can tell you that, if one day you decide to visit Parliament, you will not regret it.
I hope this article has given you an idea of what a day in our beautiful Parliament is like.