The Senate's work

In the Senate Chamber, Canada’s 105 senators take part in formal debate on current affairs. Here, senators’ main job is to examine bills proposed by the Government. Bills in the Senate go through a similar process of debate as in the House of Commons, and a bill must pass the Senate before it can become law. Any senator may take part in the debate on a bill and propose amendments. In addition, senators may propose their own bills and initiate debates in the Chamber.

Senators also work in committees, groups of 5 to 15 senators who focus on a specific policy area. These committees closely study bills sent to them by the Senate, calling witnesses to help them understand the legislation and its potential impact. Committees also conduct longer-term studies on topics in their area of interest.