1. Canadian Government

2. Type of Government
Canada is a constitutional monarchy. Since 1534, when the King of France claimed possession of what is now Canada, the history of our country has been marked by the reigns of an uninterrupted succession of monarchs, both French and British.

3. What is a Constitutional Monarchy?
In Canada’s system of government, the power to govern is with the Crown but is entrusted to the government to use on behalf of the people.
Queen Elizabeth II is Queen of Canada and Canada's Head of State

4. What is a Constitutional Monarchy? Ctd.
The Governor General and the ten Lieutenant Governors represent the Crown in Canada.
These distinguished Canadians act on The Queen's behalf.

5. Governor General
Until 1952 Governor Generals were British citizens and came to Canada to represent the monarchy.
Now they are selected by the Prime Minister and are Canadian Citizens

6. Governor General
The Governor General carries out many of the duties of Head of State on behalf of The Queen.
The Governor General performs many important responsibilities, such as presiding over the swearing-in of the prime minister, the Chief Justice of Canada and cabinet ministers. The Lieutenant Governors of the provinces perform similar duties at the provincial level.

7. Role of the Governor General
Sign all bills into law in a process called Royal Assent
Officially welcomes representatives
Reads the Speech from the Throne
Promotes pride and awareness of Canada

8. Canada’s Newest Governor General
David Johnston will become Canada's 28th Governor General Friday, October 1st taking over for the departing Michaelle Jean.

9. Three Branches
Executive Branch
Legislative Branch
Judicial Branch

10. Executive Branch What It Does
This branch carries out the business of the government.
The People Involved
The Queen (represented by the Governor General), Prime Minister, Cabinet and Civil Servants

11. Executive Branch ctd. Their Responsibilities
Makes decisions and implements them
Carries out policies and runs government departments

12. Legislative Branch What It Does Makes laws. The People Involved
Parliament (elected representatives, appointed Senate, Governor General)

13. Legislative Branch Responsibilities
Introduces, debates and passes laws

14. Judicial Who they are Judges and courts Responsibilities
Interprets and enforces laws