Identifying Canada’s democratic defects is easier than correcting them.
Part One of this series described a political system filled with institutions that appear to restrain government but frequently lack the independence or authority needed to do so. Parliament supposedly controls the government, although a disciplined majority government normally controls Parliament. Senators review legislation but are appointed. Courts protect constitutional rights but act only after someone launches a costly and lengthy challenge. Watchdogs investigate misconduct but rarely impose consequences. Elections allow governments to be replaced, but provide citizens with little control between votes.
