The B.C. government filed its legal position today with the Supreme Court of Canada in the federal government's Senate reference case about what procedures would be required to reform or abolish the Senate.

It is B.C.'s position that any significant changes to the Senate should be subject to the general Constitution amendment process and made in consultation with British Columbians. The amendment process, sometimes called the "7/50 formula", requires agreement from at least seven of the provinces representing at least 50 per cent of Canada's population. In British Columbia, a referendum is required by law before the Legislative Assembly can consider constitutional amendments that need the Province's approval.

The hearing is scheduled to take place Nov. 12-14, 2013.

B.C., along with every other province and territory except the Yukon, will act as an intervener in the case, participating in the court proceedings and providing comment on the issues being considered.

In reference cases like this - where the court's opinion is being sought on the constitutionality of a law, or questions concerning the interpretation of the Constitution - it can take a number of months for the court to consider the questions and arguments and issue its decision.

Information on the federal government's reference: http://bit.ly/1cXWTBD

For a copy of B.C.'s factum, please visit: http://www.scc-csc.gc.ca/factums-memoires/35203/FM130_Intervener_Attorney-General-of-British-Columbia.pdf

Contact:

Lori DeLuca
Government Communications and Public Engagement
Ministry of Justice
250 953-3196