Term | Definition |
unitary system | a one-level system of government |
federal system | a two-level system of government |
residual power | federal responsibility to make laws in legislative areas not assigned to the provinces |
intra vires | within the power of government to pass laws |
ultra vires | beyond the power of government to pass laws |
Statute of Westminster | legislation passed in Britain that extended Canada's law-making powers (1931) |
civil liberties | basic individual rights protected by law, such as freedom of speech |
patriate | to bring legislative power under the authority of the country to which it applies |
amending formula | procedure for changing the Constitution |
executive branch | the administrative branch of government responsible for carrying out the governments plans and policies (PM and Office) |
legislative branch | the branch of government that has the power to make, change and repeal laws |
judiciary | the branch of government responsible for presiding over Canada's court system |
bill | proposed legislation |
private members bill | legislation proposed by an MP who is not in the cabinet |
government or public bill | legislation proposed by a cabinet minister |
lobby group | people who try to influence legislators in favour of their cause |
principle of equalization | Section 36 of the Constitution Act, 1982, which provides for equal access to essential services for all Canadians |