Political Science 2211E Lecture Notes - Lecture 8: Canadian Federalism, Neoliberalism, Constitutionalism
4 Apr 2020
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Definition of federalism: at least 2 levels of government rule the same land and people, contrasts with unitary government, each level is enshrined in constitution so neither can abolish the other. Federalism in canada: constitution includes national governments and provinces, constitution outlines division of powers, supreme court and judicial review". Division of power: federal government, national defence, criminal law, employment insurance, trade and foreign affairs, money and banking, transportation, aboriginals, provinces, health, education, welfare, environment, municipalities, property and civil rights, admin of justice. Why federalism: greater diversity of policies, more democratic as governments are closer" to people, decentralization of power, policy experimentation. Neoliberal approach: free markets and less government, lower taxes, fewer social programs, less regulation, markets efficiently allocate resources, markets promote freedom due to exit option". Neoliberal constitutionalism: use constitution and judicial review to lock-in free market policies, property rights in charter or bills of rights, balanced budget amendments. Competitive federalism": federalism is key battleground over economic policy.
