Reformed Senate Needed

Douglas Black, an Albertan Senator, believes a reformed Senate is needed,

I know that many Canadians are asking themselves whether we might be better off without the Senate. Over the last several months, there has been much coverage of the ethical shortcomings of a small number of senators. This has caused some — in the public, the media and even elected officials — to call for abolition of the Red Chamber. I understand the frustration many Canadians feel. But abolishing the Senate would be a terrible loss for Canada.

During the 2012 Alberta Senate nominee election, I campaigned on the need for Senate reform. It has been six months since I took my seat in the Senate, and I am convinced, now more than ever, that its current inadequacies must be urgently addressed. The government’s proposal for term limits and elections is a step in the right direction. I also have faith that the Senate itself will continue to address the ethical and expense issues of a small number of senators who have stained the reputation of the entire chamber, through its established protocols. The recent controversies are an unwelcome distraction from the Senate’s important work, and Canadians can rest assured that their senators are determined to get to the bottom of this issue and refocus our attention on serving this country.