The prime minister

The prime minister's principal duty is to form the Cabinet and foster its unity in order to retain the support of the majority of members of the House of Commons. In overseeing government activities, the prime minister ensures that the individual responsibilities of the ministers are carried out without violating the collective responsibilities of the Cabinet as a whole. This leadership of Cabinet is thus central to the existence of a stable and cohesive government.

With regard to maintaining ministerial co-operation, the prime minister's roles and responsibilities in Cabinet have evolved within the broader context of Canada's cabinet system of government. Unlike ministers in individual portfolios, the prime minister does not have specific statutory powers and duties. Instead, the position has powers in three interrelated areas: recommending the appointment of individuals to key positions; organizing Cabinet, including portfolio composition and mandates; and providing leadership and direction to the government.

	Prime Minister Paul Martin Photo: Patrick Doyle, PMO

In exercising these powers, the prime minister relies on a broad base of advice and support. Colleagues in the Cabinet—especially the deputy prime minister and ministers in the prime minister's portfolio—are also integral in helping the prime minister perform effectively. The prime minister determines the size of the Cabinet and the duties of its members. In January 2004, 36 ministers made up Prime Minister Paul Martin’s Cabinet.