Why British Columbia's lawmakers once conducted their business inside a set of birdcages
In short: Before settling into the grand Parliament Buildings, British Columbia's legislature operated from a cluster of wooden structures nicknamed the Birdcages. Today, the assembly has evolved into a modern institution, broadcasting its proceedings through a dedicated television network that ensures public access to the democratic process across the entire province.
The Legislative Assembly of British Columbia serves as the deliberative heart of the province's government. Comprising 93 elected members, known as MLAs, the assembly functions alongside the lieutenant governor, who provides royal assent to bills in the name of the King of Canada. The institution currently operates within its 43rd Parliament, following a general election held on October 19, 2024.
The physical home of this assembly has shifted significantly over time. Between 1860 and 1898, the legislature occupied a group of five wooden buildings that locals dubbed the Birdcages due to their distinct architectural style. These structures, which included the Land Office and the Supreme Court, were eventually destroyed by fire in 1957. Since 1898, the assembly has convened in the current Parliament Buildings, a structure defined by its 150-metre facade and a prominent central dome.
Public transparency is now a cornerstone of the assembly's operations, facilitated by Hansard Broadcasting Services. While Premier Bill Vander Zalm initially proposed televised coverage in 1986, financial constraints forced a redesign that reduced projected costs from $6 million to $2 million. A temporary, manual camera setup launched on March 11, 1991, during a recall of the legislature. By the start of the 35th Parliament in March 1992, a permanent broadcasting facility was fully operational, allowing sessions to be transmitted via satellite to cable providers across British Columbia.
Today, Hansard TV provides comprehensive coverage, including live sessions and question periods, accessible through cable, satellite, and digital platforms like YouTube. The service emphasizes inclusivity, offering closed captioning and Canadian Sign Language interpretation for live broadcasts. This digital archive preserves significant historical moments, such as throne speeches and royal visits, dating back to the inception of the television service in 1991.
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Sources
- Summary by Intellect · source: Legislative Assembly of British Columbia
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