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BTC: Run for your lives!

(Update III. Our long national nightmare is over. The water is back on.)

The House of Commons just adjourned early for the day. The start of the inevitable Harper coup? Possibly.

Though the official word is that Centre Block is bereft of running water. Details to follow as events warrant…

Update. Here’s the official letter from the Clerk of the House detailing the crisis.

We are currently experiencing limited water pressure in the Parliamentary Precinct and in the satellite buildings. The City of Ottawa is working to resume full water supply on an urgent basis.

Please be advised that as a result of this situation the House has been adjourned. All employees are asked to consult with their manager or supervisor for further instructions.

The City of Ottawa has informed us that it is expected that the water supply will return to normal at approximately 6:00 p.m. this evening.

Update II. And here’s the exciting legislative proceedings.

Hon. Peter Van Loan (Leader of the Government in the House of Commons and Minister for Democratic Reform, CPC): Mr. Speaker, I understand that there is a situation within the parliamentary precinct because of a lack of water in the downtown area. I am told this is anticipated to continue for some time.

The Sergeant-at-Arms of the House of Commons has advised me that, in his opinion, the situation represents a health and safety risk. Therefore, I ask for unanimous consent for the following House order. I move:

That the notice paper close at four o’clock today, that all committee meetings be cancelled for today and that this House do now adjourn.

The Speaker: Does the hon. government House leader have the unanimous consent of the House to propose this motion?

Some hon. members: Agreed.

The Speaker: The House has heard the terms of the motion. Is it the pleasure of the House to adopt the motion?

Some hon. members: Agreed.

Motion agreed to.

The Speaker: Accordingly, this House stands adjourned until tomorrow at 10 a.m.

(The House adjourned at 3:07 p.m.)

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