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Lesson 3: Three Levels of Government. Three Levels of Government. Canada is a very large country with lots of people and different needs and interests.
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Three Levels of Government • Canada is a very large country with lots of people and different needs and interests. • In order to support the needs of citizens, the Canadian government is structured into a three level system: federal, provincial and municipal. • Each level has its own arrangement of elected representatives, as well as a unique set of responsibilities to take care of different matters.
Federal • The elected representative at the federal level is called a Member of Parliament(MP). • There are 308 elected MPs who debate and pass laws in the House of Commons in Ottawa. • The leader of the government is called the prime minister. • The Queen is represented by the governor general.
Provincial • The elected representative at the provincial level is called a Member of Provincial Parliament (MPP). • There are 107 elected MPPsthat debate and pass laws in the Ontario Legislatureat Queen’s Park in Toronto. • The leader of the government is called the premier. • The Queen is represented by the lieutenant governor.
Municipal • The elected representative at the municipal level is called a council member (councilloror alderman). • The head of the council is called a mayoror reeve. • The size of the council differs from city to town. • Councillors debate and pass legislation in the council chambers (city or town hall/municipal office).
Division of Government Responsibilities • Federal:Armed forces, trade with other countries, money, health and safety, immigration and citizenship. • Provincial: Health care, education, welfare, transportation within the province, energy and the environment. • Municipal: Waste management, water and sewer, policing and protection, community centres and libraries.
Final Thoughts • How does government affect your life? • Why is it important to know who is your local elected representative?