Parliament adjourns for 2018, ending final sitting in Centre Block for a decade

“Now we are about to leave this beautiful Chamber, this magnificent edifice, this building that means so much to all of us and to all Canadians, long may it stand,” said House of Commons Speaker Geoff Regan in declaring the adjournment.

The House and Senate both adjourned for the holidays following the official passing of a handful of government bills during what’s known as a Royal Assent ceremony. The ceremony in the Senate Chamber was overseen by Governor General Julie Payette, as is tradition. The ceremony was the final one to take place in the Senate Chamber before it closes.

“It has been truly rewarding to witness the restoration of this magnificent building over the past several years,” said Senate Speaker George Furey in a statement marking the official handover of the new Senate building on Thursday. “Today marks an exciting new chapter for the Upper Chamber and I know all senators look forward with anticipation to serving Canadians in the new Senate of Canada Building.”