Statement by Minister of State for Democratic Reform on Manitoba Senate Reform Report

December 2, 2009
Ottawa, Ontario

Ottawa - The Honourable Steven Fletcher, Minister of State for Democratic Reform, issued the following statement today on the report of Manitoba’s Special Committee on Senate Reform:

"I would like to congratulate the Special Committee for recognizing the importance of the participation of Canadians in the selection of Senators.

“The report is a step towards bringing a more democratic Senate selection process to Manitobans. Our government appreciates the support in the report for the Senate term limits legislation we have introduced.

“Our government believes Senators should be chosen by Canadians. As he has done in the past, Prime Minister Harper is willing to appoint Senators chosen through a democratic Senate selection process.”

“I look forward to reviewing the recommendations that are in the report and working with the province of Manitoba as we move forward to create a more democratic, accountable, and effective Senate.”

For more information, please contact:

Jessica Georgakopoulos
Office of the Minister of State (Democratic Reform)
613-943-6975