Vocab 3 Flashcards
Bill
A proposed law
Amending formula
The procedure for amending the constitution that requires the approval of parliament plus two-thirds of the representing 50 percent of the population.
Canadian charter of rights and freedoms
A section of the constitution act, 1982, which sets out constitutionally protected rights and freedoms
Civil liberties
The area of law that deals with legal relationships between individuals and and organizations; also known as private law.
Executive branch
The administrative branch of government responsible for carrying out the governments plans and policies; consists of the prime minister (or premier), the cabinet, and the public or civil service.
Federal system
System of government where responsibility for governing is divided between two levels of government and the provincial government
Government or public bill
A bill that is proposed by a cabinet minister
Intra vires
“Within the power”
The power a government has to pass laws within its own jurisdiction
Ultra vires
“Beyond the power”
Refers to areas that are beyond the power or jurisdiction of a government
Judiciary
The branch of law made up of justices, or judges, who adjudicate disputes, interpret the law, and decide on punishments in Canada’s court system.
Legislative branch
The branch of government that has the powers to make, change, and repeal laws; consists of the House of Commons and senate at the federal level and the legislative assembly at the provincial and territorial level.
Lobby groups
Organizations that try to influence legislators in favour of their cause.
Patriate
To bring legislative power under the authority of the country to which it applies
Principle of equalization
Includes the principle that essential services such as health care, education, or access to social services should be available equally to residents in all parts of Canada.
Private members bill
Legislation that is proposed by a member of parliament or member of the legislative assembly who is not in the cabinet.
Residual powers
Federal responsibility to make laws in the areas not specifically assigned to either the federal government or to the provinces.
Shared cost agreements
Agreement between the federal and provincial governments to share the cost of certain programs such as health care
Statute of Westminster
A amendment to the BNA act that extended Canada’s law-making powers
Unitary system
A system of government where power is centralized in one level of government.
