For the first time in Canadian history, reporters covering the proceedings in the House of Commons today will find power outlets near their seats in the Commons press gallery, above the Speakers chair. You may think this is trivial but I think this is a momentous thing. Having a power outlet here means you can stay in the House of Commons and keep enough juice in your portable computer to cover those all-night “take-note” debates. You may think I'm being facetious but I”m not. While there's no doubt that media coverage often focuses on the antics of Question Period, I suspect some reporters would spend more time in the House — and in committee rooms — covering the serious business of this place if they could stay electronically tied to their desks. I can bring my own network connection — I 'tether' the MacBook I'm typing this on to my iPhone via BlueTooth and then use my iPhone as a wireless modem — but I can't bring my own electricity.
So I think this is a big first and I hope it means there is now one less barrier to spending more time covering the nation's business.
“but I can't bring my own electricity”
You mean press gallery types can't bring spare batteries into the house? Or CanWest just doesn't want to buy them?
In any case, enjoy the free juice; here's hoping you and your colleagues put it to good use.