Working Together for You: How Government Works in Canada

Over the past few months, I’ve met with provincial and municipal leaders to stay aligned on key priorities like housing, affordability, and infrastructure. These conversations are essential to delivering meaningful results for families in Sackville–Bedford–Preston. I will continue working across all levels of government and party lines to make real progress on the issues that matter most to our communities.

Canada’s government has three levels: federal, provincial or territorial, and municipal. Each level is responsible for different areas, from national policies to local services. Understanding who does what makes it easier to follow decisions, get involved, and speak up about the issues that matter to you.

 

The federal government is responsible for matters of national and international importance, including:

  • Foreign affairs and national defence
  • Immigration and citizenship
  • Criminal law and justice
  • Banking, currency, and trade
  • Postal service and telecommunications
  • Employment insurance and pensions
  • Indigenous affairs and treaties
  • National parks and fisheries
  • Public health (e.g., epidemics, drug approvals)

 

Each province and territory has its own legislature and government, empowered to manage:

  • Education and childcare
  • Healthcare and hospitals
  • Natural resources and energy
  • Transportation infrastructure
  • Property and civil rights
  • Social services and long-term care
  • Provincial taxation and licensing
  • Administration of justice

 

Municipalities are created by provincial law and are responsible for local services, such as:

  • Local infrastructure: roads, bridges, snow removal
  • Public transit
  • Water and waste management
  • Zoning and urban planning
  • Emergency services: fire, police
  • Recreation and culture

 

Shared Responsibilities
Some areas involve shared jurisdiction or collaborative funding, including:

  • Health care and public health
  • Environmental protection
  • Immigration and newcomer services
  • Affordable housing
  • Infrastructure projects

 

Looking to connect with your local representatives or learn more about who’s responsible in your area?

Find your provincial representative
Find your municipal representative

Related articles

Stay Up to Date on Upcoming Federal Benefit and Payment Dates

Federal benefits and payments are an important part of many household budgets in Sackville—Bedford—Preston. Knowing when payments are scheduled to...

Celebrating Daneesha Provo’s Story: From North Preston to the World Stage

It was great to attend the book launch of The Daneesha Provo Story: From North Preston to the World Stage,...

Men’s Health Month: Canada’s First-Ever Men and Boys’ Health Strategy

During Men’s Health Month, we are highlighting an important milestone: the development of Canada’s first-ever national strategy focused on the...

Subscribe to my email newsletter

Stay connected with your Member of Parliament. Receive timely updates from Ottawa, hear about local events, and stay informed on community news and initiatives.

This field is for validation purposes and should be left unchanged.
This field is hidden when viewing the form
Name(Required)