Chapter 9 Video: Eddie Goldenberg

Eddie Goldenberg, former policy advisor and chief of staff to PM Jean Chretien, discusses the criteria a prime minister needs to consider when putting together a cabinet. As a central decision-making body of parliamentary government, cabinet and cabinet ministers play a key role in the functioning and daily activities of the executive and legislative branches of government.

Highlighted Segment

• 0:24–5:26: Eddie Goldenberg discusses putting together a cabinet.

Suggested In-Class Discussion Questions

1. Why is choosing a cabinet considered to be one of “the biggest jobs” for a new prime minister?
2. Several criteria to be considered in building a cabinet are mentioned, including experience, gender, ethnicity, region and knowledge. Rank the criteria from most to least important. Why did you put them in this order?
3. How important should knowledge be in appointing someone to cabinet? Are there certain ministerial portfolios that require specialized knowledge? If so, which ones and why?
4. What is the role of the deputy minister?
5. What is collegiality and how important is it in appointing someone to cabinet?

Suggested Assignment Questions

1. Congratulations! You are the newly elected prime minister of Canada. Using the data from the last election, apply the various criteria outlined (experience, gender, ethnicity, region and knowledge) and construct a cabinet.
2. How does the idea of merit relate to the formation of a cabinet in the Canadian parliamentary system?