Examine ways to make the House of Commons more family-friendly for Members of Parliament.

What success looks like

A House of Commons that is truly a modern, professional, family-friendly workplace for Members of Parliament and their staff.

Government's narrative on progress

The government now schedules votes immediately following Question Period rather than later in the evening when possible, and the House sitting calendar is tabled prior to the summer adjournment. This means Members of Parliament and parliamentary employees are able to better plan their family and childcare commitments. The House of Commons now also provides more flexible childcare services and makes high chairs available in parliamentary cafeterias. In the newly opened West Block of Parliament, there is now a family room which includes a nursing chair, a crib, and a diaper-changing table. This means better work-life balance for parents who run for office and serve as Members of Parliament. Changes were also made to travel policies so Members of Parliament can spend more time with their families. Parliament also passed new legislation to allow Parliamentarians to take maternity and parental leave. In November 2018, the Leader of the Government in the House of Commons participated in the Women MPs of the World conference in London, UK, to share best practices and showcase Canada’s leadership on how to advance gender equality and inclusiveness in parliaments across the world.

Note: this is the government's own description, not an independent assessment.