The Calgary Declaration
In 1997, all Canadian premiers (except secessonist Lucien Bouchard) signed a framework for constitutional reform in Calgary. The Calgary Declaration was ratified by all of their legislatures, following extensive public consultations. Once a federalist government is elected in Quebec again, the Declaration will provide a starting point for reform of the Canadian federation.
The statement of principles in the Declaration reads as follows:
 All Canadians are equal and have rights protected by law.
All provinces, while diverse in their characteristics, have equality of status.
Canada is graced by a diversity, tolerance, compassion and an equality of opportunity that is without rival in the world.
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.
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 wellbeing of Canada. Consequently, the legislature and Government of Quebec have a role to protect and develop the unique character of Quebec society within Canada.
If any future constitutional amendment confers powers on one province, these powers must be available to all provinces.
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 co-operatively and with flexibility to ensure the efficiency . . . 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.
Full Text of Resolutions ratifying the Declaration:
YU NWT BC AB SA MA ON NB NS PEI NF
Provincial and Territorial Websites for the Declaration:
YU NWT BC AB SA MA ON NB NS NF
Poll:
From Angus Reid (Nov, 1997) "All things considered, based on whatever you've seen read or heard,
do you, yourself, generally support or oppose this declaration?"
| |
Canada |
B.C. |
Alberta |
Man/Sask. |
Ontario |
Quebec |
Atlantic |
| (Weighted Bases) |
(1516) |
(198) |
(137) |
(106) |
(572) |
(381) |
(123) |
| |
(%) |
(%) |
(%) |
(%) |
(%) |
(%) |
(%) |
| Strongly Support |
23 |
18 |
20 |
15 |
28 |
23 |
23 |
| Moderately Support |
39 |
40 |
46 |
46 |
37 |
36 |
43 |
| Moderately Oppose |
13 |
15 |
12 |
18 |
12 |
13 |
12 |
| Strongly Oppose |
17 |
18 |
18 |
13 |
17 |
17 |
19 |
| (Unsure) |
7 |
8 |
4 |
8 |
6 |
11 |
3 |
Quebec supports the Declaration (Source: Radio-Canada) |
Reaction:
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