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How does the structure of the Senate represent Canadians in a different way than the House of Commons?
Wiki User
∙ 10y ago
The Senate of Canada is a chamber of "sober second thought". Members of the Senate are appointed by the Governor General (the Queen's representative) on the advice of the prime minister, whereas members of the House of Commons are elected during each general election. The Senate has the exact same powers as the House of Commons, with these exceptions:
- As the Government of Canada is not responsible to the Senate, the defeat by senators of a budget or a key piece of the Government's agenda does not force the resignation of the Government or a general election.
- Money bills may not be proposed in the Senate. (Note:The Senate is free to defeat any budget or money bill, and to make any amendments it wishes, provided that those amendments would not need the Governor General's Recommendation, as these can only be received at the request of a minister.)
- The Senate only has a suspensive veto of 180 days on constitutional amendments that seek the consent of the provinces. The House of Commons can pass a constitutional amendment without the consent of the Senate once this period has expired.
Wiki User
∙ 13y ago
Wiki User
∙ 10y agoThe structure of the Senate of Canada is designed to safeguard regional interests.
The Senate is divided into four "regions" (Ontario, Québec, the Maritime provinces, and the Western provinces), each of which is represented by twenty-four (24) senators. Newfoundland and Labrador is represented by six (6) senators (outside of the previously-mentioned regions), and each of the territories has one (1) senator.
This structure ensures that smaller provinces (such as Prince Edward Island), which are relatively powerless in the elected House of Commons due to low populations, can ensure that their interests are defended in the Upper House.
Since senators are appointed by the Governor General on the advice of the prime minister, and do not need to constantly seek re-election, senators are more free to consider issues outside of the lens of the party banner, and to vote independently. (Cross-party votes on bills are more common in the Senate than in the House of Commons.)
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