The Evolution of Québec Parliamentarism
There have been a number of changes in Québec’s Parliament since Confederation. The Standing Orders, the parliamentary liturgy, the standing committees and the Legislative Council are among the elements that have evolved, adapted or disappeared.
1874
Members may no longer sit in both the Québec and Ottawa legislatures simultaneously.
1914
A new codification of the rules of procedure is implemented.
1941
An annotated version of the Standing Orders in French (Règlement annoté de l'Assemblée législative) comes into force.
1961
The first woman Member of the National Assembly is elected in a by-election.
1971
A major reform of the Legislature Act introduces various new parliamentary offices, including that of Assistant Vice-President and House Leader of the Opposition.
1973
The need to streamline parliamentary procedure leads to the adoption of new Standing Orders (there are only 179 orders, compared to 812 in 1941).
1982
The National Assembly becomes more autonomous with the passing of the Act respecting the National Assembly and the establishment of the Office of the National Assembly.
1984
With its new Standing Orders, the National Assembly modernizes committee proceedings by allowing Members to study a topic on their own initiative.
2009
A major parliamentary reform introduces new means of consulting citizens and allows Members to exercise more autonomy and initiative.
2010
The Code of ethics and conduct of the Members of the National Assembly is passed.