Is a less partisan Canadian Senate likely to be more effective? (Part 1)

At a time when The House of Commons, The Senate and all institutions generally are facing criticism, it can be argued that the long awaited reform of the Canadian Senate couldn’t come at a better time. Indeed, a group of Senators are working on reforms to make the institution less partisan and more effective. The initiative is still being defined and obviously not everyone agrees with recommended changes. However, in the face of public disillusionment with the Senate, bold and decisive reform seems appropriate. Nevertheless, such changes cannot be made without careful consideration by the 36 Conservatives, 35 Independents, 18 Liberals and 7 Non-affiliated Senators currently making up Canada’s Senate. The speaker will relate her views on Senate reform and describe how partisanship sometimes can be beneficial and other times not, while debating legislation and considering amendments to such.   Speaker: The Honourable Pamela Wallin, O.C., S.O.M The Honourable Pamela Wallin, O.C., S.O.M. was appointed to the Senate of Canada on December 22, 2008. She sits as an Independent Senator from Saskatchewan. Pamela is an Officer of the Order of Canada, this country’s highest civilian honour (2007) and a member of the Saskatchewan Order of Merit (1999). She has fourteen Honourary Doctorates and was named to the Canadian Broadcasting Hall of Fame.  She is also a former Chancellor of the University of Guelph.   Pamela served as Canada’s Consul General in New York from 2002-2006, in the wake of the tragic events of 9/11.  She was then named to the Special Independent Panel on Canada’s Future Role in Afghanistan who successfully recommended support and airlift for our service personnel. She is committed to building and enhancing the military/civilian understanding and continues to work with veterans.  She is an active volunteer, and has been recognized by Queen Elizabeth II for her public service and numerous achievements. She is the author of three best-selling books. The wide-ranging career of the journalist, diplomat, entrepreneur and Senator has spanned more than 40 years, several continents, and always with a focus on politics and foreign policy. Moderator: Trevor Page Date: Thursday, Sep 21, 2017 Time: Noon - 1:30 PM (30 minutes each for presentation, lunch and Q & A) Location: Country Kitchen Catering (Lower level of The Keg) 1715 Mayor Magrath Dr. S Cost: $12.00 (includes lunch) or $2.00 (includes coffee/tea) RSVP is not necessary