Should Ministers Face Regular Question Period in the Senate?

Official title: Pursuant to rule 12-7(2)(a), consideration of possible amendments to the Rules

open Policy & Studies Justice & Rights
The Senate is studying whether to make Question Period with ministers a permanent part of its rules. Right now, ministers occasionally appear to answer senators' questions, but it's not required. This study is looking at whether to formalize that practice and how it should work.

Why This Matters

Want more accountability from federal ministers? This could give the Senate real teeth to question them regularly. It's about whether the upper chamber becomes a stronger check on government power.

What Could Change

The Senate's rules could be amended to require ministers to appear for Question Period. This would make ministerial accountability sessions a permanent fixture rather than an informal practice.

Key Issues

  • Should Question Period with ministers be formally included in the Rules of the Senate?
  • What specific amendments to the Rules would be needed?

How to Participate

  1. Contact the committee clerk at rprd@sen.parl.gc.ca or call (613) 698-0935 to inquire about submitting a brief or appearing as a witness.
  2. Watch past committee meetings on SenParlVu to understand the discussion so far.

Events

Date Event Location
December 9, 2025 9:30 AM ET Committee Meeting - Rules, Procedures and the Rights of Parliament — Register →

Key Documents