Dozens of students from universities and colleges across Canada stepped into senators’ shoes for a virtual simulation of Senate sittings and debates.

The second Model Senate — and the first held online — took place March 18 and 19, 2022. Nearly 60 model senators participated from across the country while student journalists provided coverage after a mentoring session with former reporters who are now sitting senators.

During this exciting event, students debated legislation, investigated important policy issues and learned parliamentary procedure from their student residences or home offices.

One group of model senators simulated a meeting of the Senate Committee on Energy, the Environment and Natural Resources. The committee was asked to examine and report on the reduction of plastic pollution and plastic waste in Canada. Committee members focused on how a ban on single-use plastics would affect the daily lives of Canadians.

A second group of students simulated a meeting of the Senate Committee on Foreign Affairs and International Trade. The committee looked at the impact and use of Canadian culture and arts in Canadian foreign policy and diplomacy.

Model senators also convened twice in the virtual Red Chamber for debates and votes on legislation.

Several sitting senators shared advice and took part in the activities.

Speaker of the Senate George J. Furey delivered opening remarks. He highlighted the Senate’s respectful and productive atmosphere, and he applauded the model senators and journalists for their interest and participation.

“Your desire to learn more about our parliamentary democracy and to participate as active and engaged members of society renews my hope for the future,” Speaker Furey said.

“The country will be in good hands with you in these seats.”

Senator Marc Gold fielded inquiries during question period in the Red Chamber and Senator Salma Ataullahjan appeared as a witness before the foreign affairs committee. Senator Tony Loffreda rounded out the event with closing remarks.

Additionally, senators and former journalists Julie Miville-Dechêne, Paula Simons and Pamela Wallin participated in a panel with the group of student journalists, who wrote news articles about the weekend’s proceedings. These young reporters put their interviewing skills to the test during a simulated press conference with model senators.

Here are some photos from Model Senate 2022.

In his opening remarks, Speaker of the Senate George J. Furey tells participants he is inspired by their desire to learn more about Canada’s Parliament.

Senator Marc Gold takes questions from model senators during the first day of Model Senate 2022.

Model senators simulate a meeting of the Senate Committee on Foreign Affairs and International Trade. Senator Salma Ataullahjan appeared as a witness for their study on Canada’s cultural diplomacy.

Senators and former journalists Julie Miville-Dechêne, Paula Simons and Pamela Wallin participate in a panel discussion on journalism and offer career advice to student reporters.

Model senators present the environment committee’s recommendations and take questions from student journalists during a mock press conference.

Senator Tony Loffreda gives closing remarks and takes questions from participants. The senator discussed his career in finance and the importance of developing civic literacy and critical thinking skills.