Minister Fletcher Applauds Manitoba Senate Consultations

January 15, 2009
Winnipeg, Manitoba

Winnipeg - The Honourable Steven Fletcher, Minister of State for Democratic Reform applauds Manitoba for taking a considerable step towards giving Manitobans a voice on who represents them in the Senate.

An all-party committee of the Manitoba Legislature will consult the public about electing Senators in Manitoba. The first meeting is scheduled to take place in Steinbach on January 26th, 2009 and the committee is expected to report its recommendations in June.

“Canada’s Government believes that Senate reform is necessary to ensure that our democratic institutions are ready for twenty-first century challenges. I commend the Manitoba legislature for establishing this all-party committee,” said Minister Fletcher. “I look forward to reading their recommendations.”

In the last Parliament the government introduced legislation to limit Senators’ terms in office to eight years and to give Canadians a direct say in who represents them in the Senate. It will continue working towards these goals.

Prime Minister Harper has already appointed a Senator who was selected through a provincial vote, and it his clear preference is to continue appointing Senators that have been chosen by the people.

“We are committed to moving ahead with reform of the Upper House and I look forward to working with like-minded Provinces and Parliamentarians to create a more legitimate and democratic Senate,” said Minister Fletcher.

For further information (media only), please contact:

Cherie Godin
Office of the Honourable Steven Fletcher
(613) 943-6975