Audio: Literary Tourist meets Terry Fallis on Parliament Hill

Terry Fallis would often sit and write speeches in the Library of Parliament for the member of Parliament he worked for during the 1980s. He held the place in reverence, and believes that all Canadians, at one time or another, should visit the place.

We got together outside the Library one sunny summer afternoon to discuss his award-winning political satire The Best Laid Plans, along with his thoughts on democracy. Among other things we touch on the beauty of the Library building itself, how inspiring a visit to The Hill can be, Canada's current 'apathy of affluence' and the fact that while 85% of the populace used to vote in the 60s, that number is now less than 60%.

We also talk about the pressing need for Canadians be better informed and to get engaged in their politics, the overly partisan nature of today's political debate and the laudable goals of avoiding negative portrayals of opponents, working co-operatively on legislation and of focusing on positive visions and programs that put the 'national' interest first.

Thinking you might like to check out the Parliamentary Library in Ottawa? For information on tours of Parliament Hill, click here.