Senate
Quick Summary
The Senate is one of the two legislative houses of the Parliament of Canada. It is an appointed body, with 105 members, or senators, who serve until the age of 75. The Senate's primary functions include reviewing legislation passed by the House of Commons, investigating national issues, and ensuring that Canada's regions have an equal voice in Parliament.12
Historically, the Senate was not open to women. This changed with the landmark Persons Case in 1929, when the Privy Council of England ruled that women could be appointed to the Senate, recognizing them legally as "persons". This decision was a significant step for women's rights in Canada.3
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