"Gov Gen has no role in the Senate selection process . . "

[Oscar]

The Gargoyle: Governor General turns aside NDP in quest for constitutional clarity on Senate residency rules

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Jordan Press, Ottawa Citizen Published on: May 22, 2015

Days after turning to the Governor General for a little help explaining one of the constitutional requirements to be a senator, the New Democrats were told Rideau Hall can’t help on this one.

The requirement to be a resident of the province they represent is one of the central qualifications of being a Canadian senator.

The opposition has repeatedly asked the government for the definition of “resident” given allegations and testimony at Sen. Mike Duffy’s trial that suggested he was never qualified to sit as a senator from Prince Edward Island. In response, Prime Minister Stephen Harper has said the rules have been clear for 150 years.

The NDP asked Gov. Gen. David Johnston to explain that “150-year-old definition” of resident in a letter sent Tuesday, and whether Rideau Hall has any way to ensure the constitutional requirements aren’t violated. On Thursday, the NDP received a response.

“I would like to inform you that the Governor General has no role in the Senate selection process,” reads the letter from Patricia Jaton, deputy secretary in the policy, program and protocol branch of the Governor General’s office.

“I appreciate your understanding in this matter.”

Well, so much for that idea.

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