How Ottawa Works
170-16
Government and public service courses
Navigate Canada’s decision-making system with clarity and confidence
Understanding how Ottawa really works is essential for anyone new to the federal public service or looking to better navigate Canada’s decision-making system.
This workshop demystifies the roles of Cabinet, central agencies, and Parliament, while clarifying how policy and legislation are developed and influenced.
Participants will leave with a clear, approachable map of government processes so they can engage with confidence and see how their work connects to the bigger picture
- Describe the Westminster foundations of Canada’s federal government.
- Identify the roles and responsibilities of the Prime Minister, Cabinet, Ministers, federal departments, central agencies, Parliament and the Opposition.
- Explain the Cabinet decision-making process and how policy is developed and influenced.
- Recognize how legislation is introduced and passed in Canada.
- Analyze the interactions between citizens, lobbyists, advocacy groups, politicians, and public servants.
- Summarize the relationship between the federal government and provinces/territories.
- Explain the role of public servants in supporting government priorities.
1. Foundations of Canada’s Federal System
- Westminster traditions and the structure of government
- Roles of the Prime Minister, Cabinet, Ministers, central agencies, Parliament and the Opposition
- Relationship between federal, provincial, and territorial governments
2. Decision-Making and Policy Development
- How Cabinet decision-making shapes policy and priorities
- The process of policy development and factors that influence it
- The legislative process: how bills become law
3. The Role of People and Stakeholders
- Responsibilities and values of public servants
- Interactions among citizens, lobbyists, advocacy groups, politicians, and officials
- Balancing formal structures with informal dynamics in Ottawa
There are no pre-requisites for this course.
Those new to the federal public service or anyone who wants a straightforward introduction to how Canada’s government operates and makes decisions. No prior knowledge is assumed.
This workshop addresses:
To learn more about core competencies, click here.
Open to all members of the public.
$ 595 plus tax
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