Federal Political System Review The 3 Branches of Government are: Executive Branch Legislative Branch Judicial Branch

The Head of State in Canada is The Queen Represented in Canada by The Governor General

Executive Branch The Prime Minister Leader of the Party that wins the federal election. Also, The Cabinet Appointed by the Prime Minister In charge of different government departments (portfolios, ie. Finance, Defence, Health, etc.)

Executive Branch Purpose Propose Laws (ex. Tanning beds illegal for teens) Run day-to-day business of government

Legislative Branch (Law making Body) House of Commons Made up of MP’s (Members of Parliament) from all parties that won seats in federal election ELECTED Roles: Create and debate laws to ensure peace, order and good government Represent constituents (people from ridings) Senate Made up of Senators APPOINTED by PM Roles: Sober second look at laws Represent regions and minorities across Canada Can’t make laws that spend money or tax Reform? Elect, Effective, Equal???

House of Commons 338 members Have to win election in ridings against candidates from other parties. Only need to have more votes than anyone else Win a riding = seat in Ottawa Party that wins most seats is GOVERNMENT Can by majority or minority Problems?? Popular Vote

Bill to Law Lots of steps First Reading: H of C or Senate introduces BILL Second Reading: Amendments/Reject Committee Stage: Amend/Reject Report Stage: Amend/Reject Third Reading: Amend/Reject Then goes thru same process in other House Royal Assent: Governor General signs and becomes LAW

Judicial Branch All courts in Canada Interprets and Applies the Law Ensures that laws do not restrict rights of citizens

Lobbyists Not part of government but try to influence government officials decision making. They are used by special interest groups. Ie. Tobacco companies, environmental groups, ethnic groups, etc. to bring their perspective to Ottawa.