The Machinery of Government in Canada

3 credits

This is a course about how government functions. The machinery of government is explored in four parts: how elections are conducted, how governments are formed, how supply is granted and expended, and how governments take decisions. These four parts are examined through the lens of laws, conventions, and practices. Themes that run constant include the adaptability of Westminster government, the accountability of the executive to parliament, the power of first ministers, and the roles of public servants and political staff. Students who possess an introductory understanding of Canadian government will learn why certain procedures exist and thus be able to recognize misarticulation or contravention.