Chapter 1: How Effectively Does Canada's Federal Political System Govern Canada for All Canadians?

Key Terms

• Govern: To make decisions as a government and implement them.
• Governance: The process of governing.
• Government: The body with the power to make decisions for a society.

Historical Context

• Canada became a country in 1867.
• The governance structure set by the Fathers of Confederation continues to influence Canada today.

Focus Questions

• What is the structure of Canada’s federal political system?
• How do laws become laws?
• How do the media connect Canadians to their government?
• What do lobbyists do?

Canada's Federal Political System

• Different levels: Local, provincial, and federal.
• The federal government is the focus.
• Decisions by the government affect the quality of life for Canadians.
• Governance involves acknowledging and responding to diverse needs and priorities.

Federal Political Structure

• Branches of Government:
  • Executive Branch: Includes the Prime Minister and the Cabinet.
    • Proposes laws and manages daily government affairs.
  • Legislative Branch: Comprises the House of Commons and the Senate.
    • Responsible for making laws.
  • Judicial Branch: Involves courts like the Supreme Court.
    • Interprets and applies laws.

How Laws Become Laws

• Example: Federal Accountability Act (FAA).
• Process involves multiple readings and amendments in both the House of Commons and the Senate.
• Role of Royal Assent by the Governor General.

Role of Media

• Connects citizens with government decisions.
• Different media formats affect public perception and information balance.
• Importance of detecting bias in media reporting.

Lobbyists

• Influencers of government decision-making.
• Must register with a Commissioner of Lobbyists.
• Provide expertise and represent various interests in political discussions.

Critical Thinking Challenges

• Consideration of how the system addresses minority representation.
• Analysis of media influence on government perception.
• Evaluation of the effectiveness of lobbyists in representing Canadians.

Activities and Case Studies

• Speeches on becoming Prime Minister for a day.
• Evaluation of MP roles and political processes.
• Case studies like the sponsorship scandal shed light on accountability issues.

Conclusion

• Reflect on how the federal political system serves all Canadians.
• Importance of understanding political roles, media influence, and lobbyist impact.