The Canadian House of Commons is the lower chamber of Canada's Parliament of Canada, serving as the primary legislative body where elected Members of Parliament (MPs) from various political parties debate and pass laws, oversee the government, and represent the interests of their constituencies.
History and Evolution
- Foundation: The Canadian House of Commons was established upon the creation of the Dominion of Canada in 1867 with the British North America Act, which defined the structure and function of Canada's federal government.
- Expansion: As Canada expanded, so did the House of Commons. The number of seats has grown from 181 in 1867 to 338 after the redistribution following the 2015 election.
- Key Reforms:
- 1918: Women were granted the right to vote and run for office, significantly impacting the composition of the House.
- 1982: The Constitution Act, 1982 entrenched the Canadian Charter of Rights and Freedoms, which has influenced parliamentary procedures and legislation.
Structure and Operations
- Membership: Members of the House of Commons are elected in federal elections held at least every four years. Each MP represents a riding or electoral district.
- Speaker: The Speaker, elected by MPs, presides over debates, maintains order, and acts as a representative of the House in ceremonial functions.
- Committees: The work of the House is often conducted in committees where bills are scrutinized, and policy issues are studied in detail.
- Proceedings: The House convenes in Parliament Hill, Ottawa, in the House of Commons Chamber. Debates are broadcast live on the Canadian Parliamentary Channel.
Role and Functions
- Legislation: The primary role is to introduce, debate, and pass legislation. Bills can originate from the House or the Canadian Senate, but must pass both chambers to become law.
- Accountability: The House holds the government accountable through Question Period, where MPs can question ministers, and through various committees.
- Representation: MPs represent the views and interests of their constituents, bringing local issues to the national stage.
Context
- Political Dynamics: The House is often a microcosm of Canadian political dynamics, with parties forming alliances or oppositions based on electoral outcomes.
- Public Engagement: There has been increasing emphasis on public engagement through mechanisms like e-petitions, which allow citizens to directly petition the House.
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