Federalism

Paul G. Thomas is the Duff Roblin Professor of Government at the
University of Manitoba, the author of Parliamentary Reform Through
Political Parties, and the co-author of Canadian Public Administration:
Problematical Perspectives.

There is an old joke that says: “At the Heavenly Gates there is a sign
for Canadian arrivals that reads ‘This way to a debate on whether
Heaven is a federal or provincial responsibility.’” Federalism is a
central fact of Canadian society and politics. As part of the Canadian
Democratic Audit series, this book assesses the implications of
federalism for the health of Canadian democracy based on the benchmarks
of inclusiveness, responsiveness, and participation.

The Founding Fathers of the Constitution favoured a strong central
government, but over time Canada has become one of the most
decentralized federal systems in the world. Smith argues that from the
outset, Canadian federalism has never had a strongly democratic bent;
instead it has relied greatly on a relatively closed and secretive
process of elite accommodation, the most visible expression of which is
the crucial role of First Ministers’ Conferences. Historically,
federalism has involved the competition and collaboration of the
national and 10 provincial governments. Recent years have seen the
appearance of Aboriginal governments and demands from municipalities
that they be recognized as a separate order of government. By
emphasizing intergovernmental bargaining, the practices of federalism
can place the interests of governments ahead of public participation. On
the other hand, with four orders of government—national, provincial,
municipal, and Aboriginal—there are more points of access for
citizens, which should enhance participation and responsiveness within
the political system.

Having examined the historical and contemporary dynamics of federalism,
Smith concludes there are democratic shortcomings. She recommends a
series of reforms ranging from a Council of the Federation that includes
Aboriginal representatives, to an elected Senate, and to use of the
Internet to create a vertical federation. In eight chapters the book
covers a wide range of topics in clear, readable prose, offering
valuable insights for teachers, students, and interested members of the
public.