Lesson 3: Three Levels of Government

Three Levels of Government Canada is a very large country with many different needs and interests. To meet these needs, government is structured into three levels: federal, provincial and municipal. Each level has its own elected and appointed officials. Each level is responsible for specific issues and for taking care of the people living in its region.

Federal (Canada) The elected representative at the federal level is called a Member of Parliament (MP). There are 308 elected MPs across the country. MPs debate and pass laws in the House of Commons in Ottawa (Parliament Hill). The leader of the government is called the prime minister. The Queen is represented by the Governor General.

Provincial (British Columbia) The elected representative at the provincial level is called a Member of the Legislative Assembly (MLA). There are 85 elected MLAs across the province. MLAs debate and pass laws in the British Columbia Parliament Buildings (Legislative Assembly) in Victoria. The leader of the government is called the premier. The Queen is represented by the Lieutenant Governor.

Municipal (Local) The elected representative at the municipal level is called a councillor or alderman. The size of the council differs from city to town. Councillors debate and pass laws in the council chambers (city hall/municipal office). The leader of the government is called a mayor or reeve.

Division of Responsibilities Federal: National defence, international trade, foreign policy, money, health and safety, immigration and citizenship. Provincial: Health care, education, welfare, transportation within the province, justice, energy and the environment. Municipal: Waste management, water and sewer, policing and protection, cultural facilities and libraries.

The Government of B.C. The Government of British Columbia is organized into different departments called ministries. Each ministry handles one of the government’s responsibilities (e.g., Ministry of Health, Ministry of Education) . The premier appoints an MLA to be in charge of each ministry. They are called a minister. Each minister acts as an advisor to the premier and the Legislature in their specific area.

B.C. Ministries Aboriginal Relations and Reconciliation Advanced Education, Innovation and Technology (responsible for multiculturalism) Agriculture Children and Family Development Citizens’ Services and Open Government Community, Sport and Cultural Development Education Energy, Mines and Natural Gas (responsible for housing) Environment Finance Forests, Lands and Natural Resource Operations Health Jobs, Tourism and Skills Training (responsible for labour) Justice and Attorney General Social Development Transportation and Infrastructure

Final Thoughts How does government affect your life? Which level of government affects your life the most? Would you consider working in government? Why or why not?