Clerk’s Table

This table is where the Clerk of the Senate and other table officers work during Senate sittings. The clerk is a senior Senate official who supports senators’ work on legislation in a variety of ways. For example, the clerk records the results of debates and votes during Senate sittings.

The clerk’s table, featured prominently in the centre of the Red Chamber, is significant for another reason: it’s where the Senate Mace lies. When the Senate is about to sit, the mace is placed on the table with its head facing the Speaker’s chair and the two thrones. When the sitting adjourns, the mace is removed. 

The ornamental table was designed by John A. Pearson, the chief architect of Parliament’s Centre Block (the Senate’s permanent home), to reflect the dignity of the Chamber that houses Canada’s senators. 

The clerk’s table moved temporarily to the Senate of Canada Building while Centre Block is rehabilitated.  

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