How Canadians Govern Themselves Flashcards
What type of state is Canada?
Federal state
Canada is a federal state with multiple levels of government.
What are the three key aspects of Canada’s system of government?
Federal state, parliamentary democracy, constitutional monarchy
These aspects define how Canada governs itself.
What defined the responsibilities of federal and provincial governments in Canada in 1867?
British North America Act, now known as the Constitution Act, 1867
This act outlines the division of powers between different levels of government.
What matters are the federal government responsible for?
- Defence
- Foreign policy
- Interprovincial trade and communications
- Currency
- Navigation
- Criminal law
- Citizenship
These are areas of national and international concern.
What are the provincial responsibilities in Canada?
- Municipal government
- Education
- Health
- Natural resources
- Property and civil rights
- Highways
Provinces manage local issues and services.
What areas do the federal and provincial governments share jurisdiction over?
- Agriculture
- Immigration
Both levels of government have roles in these sectors.
What is the purpose of federalism in Canada?
Allows provinces to adopt tailored policies and experiment
Federalism provides flexibility for regional governance.
What is the structure of the Parliament in Canada?
Sovereign, Senate, House of Commons
This structure is essential for the legislative process.
Who are the members of the House of Commons?
Members of Parliament elected by the people
They represent the electorate in the legislative process.
What happens if Cabinet ministers lose the confidence of the House?
They must resign
This is a key aspect of parliamentary accountability.
What is the role of the Prime Minister in Canada?
Selects Cabinet ministers and is responsible for government operations and policy
The Prime Minister plays a central role in the executive branch.
How are Senators appointed in Canada?
Appointed by the Governor General on the advice of the Prime Minister
Senators serve until age 75.
What must happen for a bill to become law in Canada?
Passed by both chambers and received royal assent
Royal assent is granted by the Governor General on behalf of the Sovereign.
Fill in the blank: The House of Commons is the _______ chamber.
representative
It is composed of elected members who represent the public.
What is the first step in the legislative process for a bill in Canada?
First Reading - The bill is considered read for the first time and is printed.
What occurs during the Second Reading of a bill?
Members debate the bill’s principle.
What happens during the Committee Stage of the legislative process?
Committee members study the bill clause by clause.
What occurs during the Report Stage of the legislative process?
Members can make other amendments.
What is the purpose of the Third Reading in the legislative process?
Members debate and vote on the bill.
What is the final step after a bill is passed by both Houses?
Royal Assent - The bill receives royal assent.
What role does the Sovereign play in Canada’s government?
The Sovereign is a hereditary Head of State and part of Parliament.
How does the Sovereign represent Canada?
The Sovereign is represented in Canada by the Governor General.
Who appoints the Governor General in Canada?
The Sovereign on the advice of the Prime Minister.
What is the role of the Lieutenant Governor in Canadian provinces?
The Lieutenant Governor represents the Sovereign in each province.
What is the term length for a Governor General in Canada?
Usually for five years.
What are the three branches of government in Canada?
Executive, Legislative, and Judicial.
What is the role of the Premier in a province?
The Premier has a role similar to that of the Prime Minister in the federal government.
What are the members of the provincial legislative assembly called?
Members of the Legislative Assembly (MLAs), National Assembly (MNAs), Provincial Parliament (MPPs), or House of Assembly (MHAs).
What is the role of the Commissioner in the three territories of Canada?
The Commissioner represents the federal government and plays a ceremonial role.
How many judges are on the Supreme Court of Canada?
Nine judges.
Who appoints the judges of the Supreme Court of Canada?
The Governor General.
True or False: The Sovereign is the head of government in Canada.
False
Fill in the blank: The Sovereign is a symbol of Canadian _______.
sovereignty.
What is the role of the Royal Family in Canada?
They serve as a symbol of lifelong service to the community.
What connects Canada to 53 other nations?
The Sovereign as Head of the Commonwealth.
