Parliament of Canada
The Parliament of Canada is the federal legislature, composed of the Crown (represented by the Governor General), the Senate, and the House of Commons. It enacts laws, oversees government, and represents Canadians.
Structure
- The Crown: Grants Royal Assent to bills; performs constitutional and ceremonial functions.
- Senate: Appointed members who review legislation and represent regions and minorities.
- House of Commons: 338 elected Members of Parliament (MPs) representing geographic ridings.
How Parliament Works
- Sessions and Sittings: Parliament meets in sessions; each session begins with a Speech from the Throne.
- Legislative Process: First reading → committee study → report stage → third reading → the other chamber → Royal Assent.
- Committees: Study bills, estimates, and issues; can summon witnesses and request documents.
- Accountability: Question Period, debates, committees, officers of Parliament (e.g., Auditor General).
Parliament Hill
Parliament sits in Ottawa. The House meets in the West Block Chamber; the Senate meets in the Senate of Canada Building during Centre Block restoration.
Related Pages
- Government of Canada
- House of Commons
- Senate of Canada
- Prime Minister of Canada
- Constitution of Canada