CAUCUS

The caucus is an essential part of each political party. It consists of all the parliamentarians-MPs and Senators both-who are party members. The caucuses meet once a week on Wednesday mornings, while Parliament is sitting, and additional meetings are held if circumstances dictate. In addition to the full caucus (National Caucus), there are regional caucuses, made up, as the word indicates, of parliamentarians from a particular province or region. I had the honour of Chairing the Ontario Liberal Caucus from fall 1998 to fall 1999.

The structure and activities of a caucus will vary from one party to another. A major difference is that fact that the Government party caucus has the advantage of knowing what legislation the Government is going to propose before it is presented in the House, so that a component of caucus meetings are briefing sessions on upcoming legislation.

The atmosphere of caucus meetings is informal and relaxed. People speak frankly. Ordinary backbenchers can raise special problems in their ridings and, if necessary, ask for help.

During caucus meetings, the parliamentarians discuss all the issues that concern the party, initiate strategies, and develop policies. The caucus is also educational for MPs who often arrive in Ottawa very familiar with local problems for which they want solutions-but unaware that these solutions may not fit in with their party's national policies. Discussions in caucus shed light on all aspects of the problem and present issues in the national context. Caucus meetings are strictly confidential. Reports are presented orally, there is no agenda, and no minutes are written.