The nomination period for the 11^th Parliamentary Poet Laureate is now closed. The announcement of the incumbent for the 2025-2026 term will be made in early 2025.

Eligibility

Those selected to be Poets laureate have made a significant contribution to Canada’s literary community through their poetry, which can be written or spoken poetry of any genre. We invite nominations of poets from all backgrounds and life experiences who are residents of Canada. Poets from any provinces or territories are welcome.

To ensure that Canada’s official languages are equitably represented, appointments to the position alternate between a poet who works primarily in English and a poet who works primarily in French. For the 2025–2026 term, the Poet will be expected to work primarily in English.

The role and responsibilities of the Parliamentary Poet Laureate are described in the About section of this website.

Criteria for selection

Candidates must:

• Have made significant contributions to the literary community;
• Have a substantial record demonstrating literary excellence;
• Be available to travel throughout Canada to promote the value of poetry; and
• Be available to participate in parliamentary events, as required.