Senate of Canada: Difference between revisions
Created page with "The '''Senate of Canada''' is the appointed upper chamber of the Parliament of Canada. It reviews legislation passed by the House of Commons, conducts in-depth studies, and represents regions and minority interests within the federal system. == Role == * Provide **sober second thought** on bills * Amend, delay, or (rarely) defeat legislation * Study complex public policy issues through committees * Represent regional and minority perspectives == Composition and App..." |
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Revision as of 04:52, 3 September 2025
The Senate of Canada is the appointed upper chamber of the Parliament of Canada. It reviews legislation passed by the House of Commons, conducts in-depth studies, and represents regions and minority interests within the federal system.
Role
- Provide **sober second thought** on bills
- Amend, delay, or (rarely) defeat legislation
- Study complex public policy issues through committees
- Represent regional and minority perspectives
Composition and Appointment
- Senators are **appointed** by the Governor General on the advice of the Prime Minister.
- Seats are regionally allocated; members serve until the **mandatory retirement age of 75**.
- Since 2016, a more independent, merit-based advisory process has expanded non-partisan membership.
Committees
The Senate’s standing and special committees examine bills, estimates, and topics like national finance, social affairs, Indigenous issues, foreign affairs, and legal/constitutional matters.
Powers
- Can propose, review, and amend most bills (money bills must originate in the House)
- May delay—but not indefinitely block—government legislation
- Issues influential reports that inform public policy