Canadian Government and Democracy Flashcards
7 cards from real CANADIAN practice questions. Tap to flip, then mark Knew It or Still Learning — missed cards come back until you master them.
Read the first 7 Canadian Government and Democracy flashcards as text
Under Canada's electoral system, what determines which candidate wins a seat in Parliament?
Answer: The candidate with the most votes, even if less than 50%
Canada uses a 'first-past-the-post' system where the candidate with the most votes wins, regardless of whether it is a majority.
What is the purpose of the 'notwithstanding clause' (Section 33) in the Canadian Charter?
Answer: It allows Parliament or provincial legislatures to override certain Charter rights for renewable five-year periods
Section 33 permits Parliament or provincial legislatures to temporarily override specific Charter rights for up to five years at a time.
Which federal institution is responsible for conducting Canadian federal elections?
Answer: Elections Canada
Elections Canada is the independent, non-partisan agency responsible for administering federal elections and referendums.
What is the significance of the 'Quiet Revolution' to Canadian democracy?
Answer: It was a period of rapid social and political change in Quebec that strengthened provincial powers and Quebec identity
The Quiet Revolution of the 1960s transformed Quebec society, secularized institutions, and asserted Quebec's distinct identity within Confederation.
What is a 'by-election' in Canada?
Answer: An election called to fill a vacant seat between general elections
A by-election is held in a single riding when a seat becomes vacant due to death, resignation, or disqualification of the sitting MP.
Which of the following best describes 'federalism' as practiced in Canada?
Answer: Power is divided between a central government and provincial governments
Canadian federalism divides legislative authority between the federal government and the provinces, each supreme in their own areas.
What role does the Clerk of the House of Commons play in Canadian democracy?
Answer: Serving as the chief administrative officer and procedural advisor of the House of Commons
The Clerk of the House of Commons is the most senior permanent officer, advising the Speaker and MPs on parliamentary rules and procedures.