While it is public servants and cabinet ministers who have direct responsibility for drafting new legislation, members of parliament can influence legislation through debates in the House of Commons and during all-party committee meetings to examine legislation. Both substantive and fine-tuning amendments to legislation are often made at committee stage.  Members of parliament can also introduce legislation of their own, called "private members bills".

Watchdogs on Government

Canadian members of parliament can influence federal government policy by participating in House of Commons committees which review federal government department activities and spending, as well as legislation. Government members of parliament also raise policy issues in caucus meetings of members of parliament of their own party and can lobby cabinet ministers. Members of parliament in opposition parties use the daily Question Period in the House of Commons to raise issues of concern and bring them to the attention of the public.

Party Supporters

A member of parliament usually supports a political party and plays a role in the operation of the party. A few members of parliament may sit as independents and do not have party responsibilities.

Offices

Members of parliament maintain two offices with corresponding staff - one on Parliament Hill in Ottawa and one in the constituency. Cabinet ministers also maintain an office and staff in the departments for which they are responsible.

Role of Parliament

These resources will provide you with information about the role of the House of Commons as well as its structure and functions.

Websites:

Parliament of Canada
Provides current and historical information about the House of Commons, as well as Webcasts of Chamber proceedings. Includes:

• Guide to the Canadian House of Commons
• How Canadians Govern Themselves
• Inside Canada’s Parliament

Cable Public Affairs Channel (CPAC)
Provides CPAC’s entire television schedule live online, including the Commons debates and some Senate committee meetings.  Podcasts of selected CPAC programming are also available.

Canada Site
Government of Canada
Provides access to information about Canada and the Government of Canada, including:

• Structure of the Government of Canada, which provides links to information about the structure and workings of the Government of Canada, including the House of Commons and the Senate.

Canadian Government Information
Library and Archives Canada
Selective collection of Internet sources for governmental information. Includes links to Canadian government websites and key federal documents.

Canadians and Their Government: A Resource Guide
Canadian Heritage
A resource guide containing ready-to-use material for various types of learning environments. Provides a comprehensive and concise explanation of how Canada has developed, and continues to develop, as a strong democratic country.

Historica: The Canadian Encyclopedia Online
Contains useful and informative entries on the House of Commons, the Senate, Political Participation (including information about voter turnout), the Party System (including the roles of political parties), Elections and the Electoral System (including electoral reform.)

(Source: Government of Canada)