Policy Guide

Participating in Federal Public Policy: A Guide for the Voluntary Sector

The Federal Government ⁶

It is important to understand how the federal government is organized in order to appreciate how its policy process works. A basic understanding will enable your organization to know about and seek out opportunities for involvement in the policy process. As complex as it may be, this knowledge will further your organization's ability to contribute meaningfully to public policy.

The Canadian system of government is a parliamentary system. The Parliament of Canada consists of the Queen, the Senate and the House of Commons. Three constituent parts handle the governing of the country: the Executive Branch, the Legislative Branch and the Judiciary. The first two are involved in the development and implementation of policy (based on the recommendations of the Public Service which are acted on by the Prime Minister and Cabinet) while the third is in place to interpret and implement that policy.

Canada's Parliamentary System

Canada's Parliamentary System

Table of Contents

Important Notices

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Last Updated: 2012-05-17

Participating in Federal Public Policy: A Guide for the Voluntary Sector

The Federal Government 6

The Federal Government ⁶