Senate of Canada: Difference between revisions
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== Composition and Appointment == | == Composition and Appointment == | ||
* Senators are | * Senators are '''appointed''' by the Governor General on the advice of the Prime Minister. | ||
* Seats are regionally allocated; members serve until the | * 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. | * Since 2016, a more independent, merit-based advisory process has expanded non-partisan membership. | ||
Latest revision as of 17:09, 4 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