Continuing conversations with Canadians IX

In all reports of dissatisfaction with Canadian democracy, Question Period seems to be at or near the top of the list. In the latest issue of the Canadian Parliamentary Review, Frances Ryan takes a critical look at Question Period. She suggests that the lack of effective accountability in Question Period stems from both behavioural and structural problems. But there is a conundrum: without addressing the behavioural issues, it is hard to address the structural problems, since parliamentarians themselves must be at the root of any changes to Question Period structure.

Ryan identifies 4 major structural issues:

• The time allotted for questions and answers is too short
• Mandatory daily attendance ensures lack of focus and increased partisanship
• Party lists ensure that questions are tightly scripted with a partisan emphasis
• And backbench MPs on the government side are prevented from asking meaningful questions.

Ryan suggests that in order to create change, there needs to be renewed study and dialogue about Question Period, and calls for greater lobbying of parliamentarians in favour of reform.

Also worth checking out, Aaron Wherry of Macleans links to a longer essay by Ryan, and adds his own suggestions for QP reform.