Canada's new government takes first step in senate reform

May 30, 2006

OTTAWA – The Honourable Rob Nicholson, Leader of the Government in the House of Commons and Minister for Democratic Reform, and the Honourable Marjory LeBreton, Leader of the Government in the Senate, today took the first step in reforming the senate.

A bill introduced in the Senate today will limit the tenure of new Senators to a period of eight years, while allowing existing Senators to hold their appointment until reaching the age of 75.

“Fixed terms of eight years will allow Senators to gain the necessary experience to carry out their important parliamentary functions while at the same time ensuring that the Senate is refreshed with new perspectives and ideas on a regular basis,” said Senator LeBreton.

“The Senate must continue to reflect the expectations of Canadians for their democratic institutions,” stated Minister Nicholson. “This amendment represents an important step in achieving that while at the same time ensuring that Senators will continue to fulfill their important legislative role in our Parliamentary system.”

Under current practice, Senators must be at least 30 years of age and they can hold their Senate seats until the age of 75 years, meaning that Senators can potentially serve for as long as 45 years.

“The Senate is one forum in which the concerns and interests of Canadians can be brought forward,” added Minister LeBreton. “Reducing the tenure of Senators is one important step in ensuring that the legitimacy of the Senate and its work is enhanced.”

In the April 4, 2006 Speech from the Throne, Canada’s new Government committed to ‘explore means to ensure that the Senate better reflects both the democratic values of Canadians and the needs of Canada’s regions.’

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