BACKGROUNDER
THE CALGARY DECLARATION

What do the Principles Say?

Canadians as Citizens

Principles 1, 3 and 4 of the Calgary Declaration speak of Canadians as citizens.

They affirm the equality of all Canadians while recognizing the diversity of cultures, heritage and language that make up our Country.

This equality of Canadians combined with respect for our diversity, is seen as an important, beneficial, indeed, enviable trait of Canada as a nation.

Canada and the Provinces of Canada

Principles 2, 5, 6, and 7 deal with Canada as a federation and as individual provinces.

These principles speak about the equality and the diversity of the provinces of Canada.

The second principle states clearly that all provinces, while diverse, are equal members of the federation.

The fifth principle gives special recognition to the French foundation of Quebec, including the French language, culture and tradition of civil law. This French foundation of Quebec is recognized as unique in our Country and fundamental to the continued well-being of Canada.

The sixth principle states that all provinces must be treated equally if, in the future, any constitutional amendment is made to confer powers on one province. In other words, the Constitution could not be amended to give powers to one province without making the power available to all provinces.

The seventh principle speaks about the partnership of federal, provincial and territorial governments. That partnership includes a respect for each other's jurisdictions. All governments are expected to work cooperatively and with flexibility for the good of Canada. Special recognition is given to cooperation in the delivery of social programs.

 

Why is the Calgary Declaration Good for Newfoundland and Labrador?

The principles affirm the basic foundation of what makes us Canadians. The underlying theme is equality built on diversity. This theme applies to individual citizens as well as to the provinces and the federation. This theme affirms what is special about Newfoundland and Labrador, while ensuring that we are treated equally with other provinces.

The principles are based on a recognition of the reality that strong provinces will result in a strong federation, and conversely, that a strong federation will result in strong provinces. This strength can only work to the advantage of Newfoundlanders and Labradorians.

THE CALGARY DECLARATION

  1. All Canadians are equal and have rights protected by law.

  2. All provinces, while diverse in their characteristics, have equality of status.

  3. Canada is graced by a diversity, tolerance, compassion and an equality of opportunity that is without rival in the world.

  4. Canada's gift of diversity includes Aboriginal peoples and cultures, the vitality of the English and French languages, and a multicultural citizenry drawn from all parts of the world.

  5. In Canada's federal system, where respect for diversity and equality underlies unity, the unique character of Quebec society, including its French-speaking majority, its culture and its tradition of civil law, is fundamental to the well-being of Canada. Consequently, the legislature and government of Quebec have a role to protect and develop the unique character of Quebec society within Canada.

  6. If any future constitutional amendment confers powers on one province, these powers must be available to all provinces.

  7. Canada is a federal system where federal, provincial and territorial governments work in partnership while respecting each other's jurisdictions. Canadians want their governments to work cooperatively and with flexibility to ensure the efficiency and effectiveness of the federation. Canadians want their governments to work together particularly in the delivery of their social programs. Provinces and territories renew their commitment to work in partnership with the Government of Canada to best serve the needs of Canadians.

 

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