Branches of Government Flashcards
The Executive Branch is aka
The Cabinet
The Executive Branch consists of
the Prime Minister - Chief Executive Officer
Ministers of Government - (those w/ portfolios)
What are 3 things the Cabinet responsible for?
- Setting policies for the country.
- Seeing that those policies are carried out.
- Initiating proposals for legislation and taxation
- The Cabinet is assisted by the Civil Service which is responsible for implementing the government’s policies
How does the Cabinet work?
When policies are discussed and agreed upon, members are expected to support it publicly and in Parliament.
The entire cabinet is held responsible for decisions. (collective responsibility)
The Cabinet is accountable to the Parliament and when asked questions on policies they must provide explanations about their Ministry’s policies when requested.
What actions can a Cabinet member take if he/she is not in favour of a particular policy?
- Remain silent on the policy
- Resign from the Parliament
- Resign from the Cabinet
Give two reasons why a Cabinet member may choose to support a controversial government policy.
- They accept the principle of collective responsibility.
- They know that the Prime Minister may dismiss him/her for not supporting it.
The Legislative Branch is aka
The Parliament of T&T
The Legislature is responsible for:
- Making laws for good governance.
- Providing oversight of the Government.
According to the Constitution of Trinidad and Tobago, the Legislature consists of:
- The President
- The Senate (The Upper House)
- The House of Representatives (The Lower House)
If the Legislature has one body it is described as…
a Unicameral Legislature
If the Legislature has two bodies it is described as…
a Bicameral Legislature
Though the President is not a sitting member of Parliament, they have key roles. Name two.
- Approves Bills before they become law.
- Appoints members to office on the recommendation of the Prime Minister and Opposition Leader.
The House of Representatives consists of:
This chamber consists of:
Elected members of the Cabinet, the governing party, and the Opposition.
3 functions of the HOR include:
- Examining the government’s performance.
- Passing, amending and repealing legislation.
- Approving the national budget.
- Debating issues of national importance.
- Authorizing the use of public funds.
Are senators elected or appointed and by whom?
Appointed.
By:
The President
The Prime Minister
Leader of the Opposition
What is the judiciary?
The Judiciary is the legal branch of the government that enforces laws of the country.
How does the judiciary work towards resolution?
- By resolving disputes with the application of the law
- By determining the punishment for offenders.
The Judiciary ensures the other branches of government to do not…
…overstep their powers as outlined in the constitution.
and the Judiciary acts independently of the government.
