Canada's System of Government
Canada is defined by three governance principles: a federal state, a parliamentary democracy, and a constitutional monarchy.
1. The Sovereign and Governor General
- Head of State: The Sovereign (King Charles III), who embodies the Crown and reigns according to the Constitution.
- Governor General: Represents the King at the federal national level, appointed by the Sovereign on the advice of the Prime Minister, usually serving about five years rather than a fixed statutory term. Gives Royal Assent to bills passed by Parliament.
- Lieutenant Governors: Represent the Sovereign in each of the 10 provinces.
2. The Prime Minister and Cabinet
- Head of Government: The Prime Minister, who must be able to maintain the confidence of the House of Commons, including through support from other parties in a minority Parliament. Directs government policy and appoints Cabinet ministers.
- The Cabinet: Ministers responsible for federal government departments, making pivotal executive decisions.
3. The Parliament of Canada
Federal legislation is enacted by the three components of Parliament:
1. The Sovereign (represented by the Governor General)
2. The Senate: The Upper House. 105 senators appointed on the PM's advice, reviewing bills to provide 'sober second thought' until mandatory retirement at age 75.
3. The House of Commons: The elected Lower House. 343 Members of Parliament (MPs) representing local electoral districts (ridings) across Canada.
Division of Powers: Federal vs. Provincial
- Federal Responsibilities: National defence, foreign policy, citizenship, criminal law, banking and currency, fisheries, postal service.
- Provincial Responsibilities: Healthcare delivery, public education, municipal institutions, natural resources, civil law, highways.