ABBOTSFORD ISSUES

Senate Accountability

Canadians expect and deserve a Senate that reflects the values and desires of a 21^st century democracy. Our Conservative Government recognizes this desire and has reintroduced the Senate Selection Act and the Constitution Act, 2010 (Senate term limits) to limit Senate terms to eight years. It is undemocratic for appointed members to serve until the retirement age of 75.

An Act to Amend the Constitution Act, 1867guarantees the accountability of this unelected body. This important piece of legislation sends the message to Canadians that their Senate is truly playing the role of sober second thought. Terms of forty-five years in the Senate are simply too long. This bill advances the democratic nature of Canada by allowing more citizens to serve their country as potential Parliamentarians through the limitation of Senator terms.

Setting Senate term limits is a long-overdue step in the right direction. By reducing Senate terms to eight years, the Upper Chamber would be kept honest and become more aligned with Canadian values. Through the Senate Selection Act, our government will further democratize the Senate by selecting Senators that receive the support of voters through an election process of each provinces choosing.

This modernization is necessary for Parliament to truly reflect the voices of Canadians. These initiative show Prime Minister Harper’s continued commitment to accountability. Canadians can trust our Conservative Government to deliver on its promises to reform the Senate into a modern democratic body.