REP DAY 2014 Government in Canada

Canada is a federal state, parliamentary democracy and constitutional monarchy. A federal state brings together a number of different political communities with a central government (federal) for general purposes and separate local governments (provincial) for local purposes. As a parliamentary democracy, we elect members to our parliament and legislatures across the country. As a constitutional monarchy, Canada’s head of state is a hereditary sovereign (queen or king), who reigns in accordance with the Constitution.

Three Levels of Government Canada is a very large country with lots of people and different needs and interests. To operate most effectively, the Canadian government is structured into a three level system: federal, provincial and municipal. Each level has its own arrangement of elected and appointed officials, as well as a unique set of responsibilities.

Federal The elected representative at the federal level is called a member of parliament (MP). There are 308 elected MPs across Canada. They debate and pass laws in the House of Commons in Ottawa. The leader of the government is called the prime minister. The Queen is represented by the governor general.

Provincial The elected representative at the provincial level is called a member of the legislative assembly (MLA), member of provincial parliament (MPP - Ontario), member of the house of assembly (MHA – Newfoundland and Labrador), or member of the national assembly (MNA - Quebec), depending on where you live in Canada. Elected representatives debate and pass laws at the legislative assembly. The leader of the government is called the premier. The Queen is represented by the lieutenant governor at the provincial level.

Municipal The elected representative at the municipal level is called a councillor. The head of council is called a mayor, reeve or warden. The size of the council differs from city to town. Councillors debate and pass legislation in the council chambers (city or town hall/municipal office).

Section 91-95, Constitution When they chose a federal form of government, the Canadian Fathers of Confederation assigned particular responsibilities to the different levels of government (Sections 91–95, Constitution Act). This division of powers is based on the idea of subsidiarity, meaning, the government that is closest to the issue governs it. Municipal governments receive their powers from the provinces.

Division of Responsibilities Federal: National defence, trade, foreign policy, money, health and safety, immigration and citizenship. Provincial/Territorial: Health care, education, welfare, transportation within the province, justice, energy and the environment. Municipal: Waste management, water and sewer, policing and protection, cultural facilities and libraries.

Final Thoughts How does government affect your life? Why is it important to know who is your elected representative?