Unit 2 Flashcards
What is the maximum time allowed before a Prime Minister must request the Governor General to call an election?
The maximum time allowed is five years.
List the requirements (criteria) for a citizen to a) vote and b) to run for political office.
a) To vote: Must be a Canadian citizen, at least 18 years old on election day, and provide proof of identity and address.
b) To run for political office: Must be a Canadian citizen, at least 18 years old, and must be nominated by a political party or run as an independent.
What does a scrutineer do? Who do they work for?
(members of political parties whose candidates are on the ballot) are present to witness the count
What does the chief electoral officer do when an election is called?
The chief electoral officer oversees the administration of the election, including setting up polling stations and ensuring compliance with electoral laws.
What are interest groups? Why are they important? Give examples.
Interest groups are organizations that advocate for specific issues e.x MADD. They are important because they influence public policy and raise awareness. Examples include environmental groups and business associations.
Know Canada’s five largest political parties in detail and for each one explain what their view on a nationally funded Child Care (paid for through taxes) – consider their places on the political spectrum.
- Liberal Party: Supports nationally funded child care.
- Conservative Party: Opposes it, favoring private options.
- New Democratic Party (NDP): Strongly supports it.
- Bloc Québécois: Supports it with a focus on Quebec.
- Green Party: Advocates for it as part of social policy.
What are the benefits and disadvantages of a) a two-party system versus, b) a multi-party system?
a) Two-party system benefits: Simplicity and stability. Disadvantages: Limited choice and representation.
b) Multi-party system benefits: Greater representation and choice. Disadvantages: Potential for instability and coalition governments.
Explain why multi-party systems sometimes produce minority governments.
Multi-party systems can lead to minority governments when no single party gains a majority of seats, resulting in coalitions or agreements between parties.
How do political parties help us to select representatives and why is a platform important?
Political parties help by nominating candidates and providing a platform that outlines their policies and values, guiding voters in their choices.
Explain how a winner is decided in the “first past the post” versus the “proportional representation” systems?
In ‘first past the post’, the candidate with the most votes wins, regardless of majority. In ‘proportional representation’, parties gain seats in proportion to the votes they receive.
Which do you believe is more fair for a country? Explain.
Proportional representation is often seen as fairer because it reflects the diverse views of the electorate more accurately.
What are protest parties and give an example?
Protest parties are formed to express dissatisfaction with the political system or mainstream parties. An example is the Reform Party.
What are the 5 steps of the Electoral Process?
- Voter registration.
- Nomination of candidates.
- Campaigning.
- Voting.
- Counting and declaring results.
What are the 3 Branches of government?
- Executive
- Legislative
- Judicial
What are the responsibilities of each branch of government?
- Executive: ADMINISTERS AND CARRIES OUT THE GOVERNMENT
- Legislative: Makes and amends laws
- Judicial: Enforces law and sets penalties
What are the 2 responsibilities of our constitution?
- Establishes the framework of government.
- Protects the rights of citizens.
What are the 3 important roles of Canada’s constitution?
- Defines the structure of government.
- Protects individual rights.
- Regulates the relationship between federal and provincial governments.
What is the political spectrum? Know both sides in detail.
The political spectrum ranges from left (liberal, progressive) to right (conservative, traditional). The left advocates for social equality and government intervention, while the right emphasizes individualism and limited government.
What are the responsibilities of the Governor General?
The Governor General represents the monarch, performs ceremonial duties, and ensures the government operates within the constitution.
What is a riding? How many does Canada have?
A riding is an electoral district. Canada has 338 ridings.
What is the Indian Act and explain its significance?
The Indian Act was a treaty that gave THE GOVERNMENT UNPRECEDENTED POWER OVER CANADA’S FIRST NATIONS PEOPLE
What is the Canadian Senate? What is its role and purpose?
The Canadian Senate is the upper house of Parliament. Its role veto or pass a bill, REVIEWING LAWS REPRESENTING REGIONAL INTERESTS, PROVIDING GOVERNMENT STABILITY
What are regional parties and what is their importance?
Regional parties focus on specific geographic areas and represent local interests, contributing to the diversity of political representation.
What are the 9 steps in passing a law?
- FROM IDEA TO BILL—PM & MINISTER DISCUSS THE LAW AND PUT ON PAPER (BILL)
- FIRST READING—MINISTER INTRODUCES BILL TO HOUSE OF COMMONS
- SECOND READING—MINISTER INTRODUCES & BILL IS DEBATED
- VOTE—ALL MPS VOTE
- COMMITTEE AND REPORT STAGE -BILL STUDIED & AMENDMENTS MADE
- VOTING ON AMENDMENTS—ALL MPS VOTE
- THIRD READING—MORE DEBATE IN HOUSE OF COMMONS
- THE SENATE—PASS OR VETO BILL
- ROYAL ASSENT—GOVERNOR GENERAL SIGNS BILL ON BEHALF OF QUEE
