Three Levels of Government

In Richmond County the local (municipal), government offices are located in Arichat. Under the Canadian Constitution, municipal governments in our country have the power to make decisions on local matters that affect the community. The provincial and territorial governments have responsibilities over matters that deal with the provinces and the territories. Provincial and territorial governments sit in the capital of each province or territory. Our provincial government sits in Halifax. The federal government decides on matters that concern the whole country and is based in Ottawa.

Canada is a democracy. That means ordinary citizens take part in governing Canada by voting. Respect for democracy is one of the most important values Canadians share. Here are some examples of government responsibilities.