Period B Senate Debate June 10

Period B Senate Debate June 10

Period B Senate Debate June 10

Number of replies: 4

The Senate is part of our Parliament. It is not elected. The governor general, "on the recommendation of the prime minister," appoints its members. This means that the prime minister does the actual appointing, and the governor general approves each appointment. The Senate reviews and suggests changes to legislation passed by the House of Commons. In theory, it has the power to refuse to pass legislation from the House of Commons, but it does this very rarely." 

Let's Discuss Activity 

The role of the Senate has long been the subject of controversy. Some people want the Senate abolished, while others would like to see senators elected. Research the role of the Senate and:

1. List 3 reasons why the Senate should be abolished

OR

2. List 3 reasons why you think it should be kept. 

**75 words; Answer below in Moodle


In reply to First post

Re: Period B Senate Debate June 10

by Qichun (Pierce) Zhang -
Because the Senate currently lacks legitimacy, it's not elected and the Senate expenses scandal should make us think about whether the Senate is really useful or a waste of taxpayer money
In reply to First post

Re: Period B Senate Debate June 10

by Yuhan (Yoly) Fu -
I think the first one is checks and balances, because the Senate is a very careful house, and they do a very strict check on the power of the House of Commons. And the Senate's role in reviewing and amending and legislating helps to prevent the enactment of careless and ill-conceived laws, thereby improving the quality and balance of Canadian governance. The second is expertise and experience. Unlike members of the lower house, who are often elected and replaced, senators can have a continuous and stable role in the legislative process. Many Senators bring a great deal of expertise and experience to the role, and contribute many ideas and insights to the debate and policy discussion. The third is minority interests and representation, as the Senate appointment process is easy and allows for individuals who may represent minority or underrepresented groups in Canadian society. This approach helps ensure that different perspectives are considered in the legislative process and promotes inclusiveness and diversity in Canada's political institutions.
In reply to First post

Re: Period B Senate Debate June 10

by Jiaheng (Andrew) Li -
The first reason is about checks and balances, highlighting the Senate's careful scrutiny over the House of Commons to prevent hasty laws and ensure balanced governance. The second reason emphasizes expertise and stability, noting that unlike elected members of the lower house, senators offer continuous experience and knowledge, enriching policy debates. Lastly, the third reason discusses minority representation, explaining how the Senate's appointment process fosters inclusivity by allowing individuals from underrepresented groups to contribute diverse perspectives to legislative decisions.
In reply to First post

Re: Period B Senate Debate June 10

by Shaohui (Bill) Zhang -
I think it should be reserved because the Senate is a very important body in Canada's rights and the rule of law, but the premise of ensuring the compliance, fairness and justice of the Senate is the need for democratic elections, which can promote the inclusiveness and diversity of Canadian political institutions.