Law 12 Vocab Chapter 3

Question 1

Amending Formula

Answer 1

the procedure for amending the constitution. Needs approval of parliament + 2/3’s of the provinces representing 50% of population.

Question 2

Bill

Answer 2

a proposed law.

Question 3

Canadian Charter of Rights and Freedoms

Answer 3

part of Constitution Act, 1982 which sets out constitutionally protected rights/freedoms.

Question 4

Civil Liberties

Answer 4

basic rights of the individual, such as freedom of speech, protected by the law.

Question 5

Executive branch

Answer 5

The administrative branch of government responsible for carrying out the governments plans/policies. Consists of prime minister, Cabinet, and the public or civil service.

Question 6

Federal System.

Answer 6

system of government where responsibility for governing is divided between the central government and provincial government.

Question 7

Government or Public bill

Answer 7

A bill proposed by a cabinet minister.

Question 8

Intra vires

Answer 8

“within the power” means the power a government has to pass laws within its own jurisdiction.

Question 9

Ultra vires

Answer 9

“beyond the power” refers to areas that are beyond the power or jurisdiction of a government.

Question 10

Judiciary

Answer 10

Branch of law made up of justices, or judges, who adjudicate disputes, interpret the law, and decide on punishments in Canada’s court system.

Question 11

Legislative Branch

Answer 11

Branch of government made up of the house of commons/senate at federal level, and legislative assembly at provincial/territorial level. Has the powers to make/edit/repeal laws.

Question 12

Lobby groups

Answer 12

organizations that try to influence legislators in favor of their cause.

Question 13

Patriate

Answer 13

To bring legislative power under the authority of the country it applies to.

Question 14

Principle of Equalization

Answer 14

Constitution Act, 1982, Section 36. The principles that essential services such as health care, education, or access to social services should be available equally to all residents in all of Canada

Question 15

Private Member’s Bill

Answer 15

Legislation that is proposed by an MP or MLA who is not in the Cabinet.

Question 16

Residual Power’s

Answer 16

Federal responsibility to make laws in areas not specifically assigned to either the federal government or other provinces.

Question 17

Shared Cost Agreements

Answer 17

Agreements between federal and provincial governments to share the costs of certain programs.

Question 18

Statute of Westminster

Answer 18

An amendment to the BNA act which increased Canada’s law making powers.

Question 19

Unitary System

Answer 19

A system of government where power is centralized in one level of government.