The political structure of Canada

Canada now has 3 territories and 10 provinces. It is considered a federal state, since the various powers are divided between the central government and the provincial governments. The powers of the territorial governments are delegated by the federal government.

The federal government is responsible for matters that concern Canada as a whole, such as interprovincial and international trade, national defence, criminal law, the banking and monetary systems, and the fisheries.

The provinces and territories are responsible for matters such as education, property and the administration of justice, hospitals and municipalities. For the territories, federal laws regulate the election of territorial councils, whose powers—including passing territorial laws—are conferred by the federal government. The provinces, in contrast, have the power to pass laws in a number of areas.

Municipalities, which are created under provincial laws, can make by-laws to deal with local matters such as snow removal and parking.