Lesson 3: Three Levels of Government

Three Levels of Government Canada is a very large country with many different needs and interests. In order to support the needs of citizens, the government is structured into three levels: 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). The federal legislative body has 308 elected MPs. MPs debate and pass laws in the House of Commons in Ottawa (Parliament Hill). 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 Provincial Parliament (MPP). The legislative body in Ontario has 107 elected MPPs. MPPs debate and pass laws in the Ontario Legislature at Queen’s Park in Toronto. The leader of the government is called the premier. The Queen is represented by the lieutenant governor.

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

Division of Responsibilities Federal: National defence, trade, foreign policy, money, health and safety, immigration and citizenship. Provincial: 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.

Government Ministries The Government of Ontario is organized into departments called ministries (e.g., Ministry of Health and Long-Term Care, Ministry of Education) and each is in charge of one of the government’s responsibilities. The premier appoints MPPs to head each Ministry of the Executive Council (cabinet). Each minister is in charge of one of the provincial responsibilities and acts as an advisor to the premier and the legislature in their area of expertise.

Government of Ontario Ministries These are some of the ministries of the Government of Ontario: Aboriginal Affairs Agriculture and Food Children and Youth Services Citizenship and Immigration Community and Social Services Community Safety and Correctional Services Education Energy Environment Finance Health and Long-Term Care Infrastructure Labour Natural Resources Training, Colleges and Universities Transportation

Final Thoughts How does government affect your life? Which level of government affects your life the most? Would you consider working in government?