Reforming the Senate

August 2, 2013

 

empty senate of canadaTwo weeks ago, Prime Minister Stephen Harper announced his largest cabinet shuffle since coming to power in 2006. As part of this shuffle, I was honoured with the role of Minister of State (Democratic Reform).

 

It is a great honour to be given this responsibility. I look forward to the upcoming challenges and the successes we will have in implementing true Senate reform. The Conservatives are the only party who have a real plan for this reform, including strict new accountability rules to prevent further abuse of taxpayer dollars. I believe in the Prime Minister’s democratic reform agenda, and will work to make it happen.

 

Canadians understand that our Senate, as it stands today, must either change or even vanish like the old upper houses of our provinces. The process of implementing change can be difficult and complex, given that the Senate is a part of our Constitution. This is why our government has requested further clarification from the Supreme Court regarding what change is possible. We are expecting an answer on that next year.

 

While my new responsibilities will keep me busy, I will continue to serve as your Member of Parliament with the same dedication as before. I am grateful for all the support that many of you have given me throughout my terms representing Nepean-Carleton and, moving forward, I welcome your thoughts on how I can best do my work.

 

I have always believed in individual freedom through less government. I will continue to work towards this goal as your Member of Parliament, and in my new role as Minister of State (Democratic Reform).

 

Pierre Poilievre MP
Nepean-Carleton

Originally submitted to the EMC-Ottawa Newspaper