Keeping Canada's constitutional monarchy is better for our country than becoming a republic. The Canadian monarchy maintains our national identity, keeps us unified and strong, is not more expensive then a republic, and is effective because it is non-partisan.
First of all, our monarchy maintains our national identity, unity, diversity, and stability! Our system of government reflects Canadian heritage and history. The Queen is a key part of our Canadian heritage, and keeps our identity established. The monarchy unites our nation under the crown – all the different regions of Canada and all the political parties of Canada are united by the monarchy and the Queen! Our Queen is also the head of the Commonwealth of Nations, a very diverse group of countries. The Queen promotes diversity and co-operation between people from different places and backgrounds, both internationally and here in Canada. The monarchy is constant – our monarch is experienced, respected and unelected. While governments come and go, our monarchy will remain the same! This brings a higher level of stability to our government.
Many republicans assert that the constitutional monarchy is a waste of money. That simply isn't true. According to a survey by the Monarchist League of Canada in 2009, the monarchy only costs each Canadian $1.53 per year. In comparison, the National Gallery of Canada costs $1.42 per person and the CBC costs Canadians $33 per person. The cost of the monarchy includes important engagements and state visits by the Governor General and Lieutenant Governors, looking after historical sites like Rideau Hall in Ottawa and La Citadelle in Quebec City, and the many different Canadian honours and decorations given to outstanding Canadians (for example, the Order of Canada). These are important duties that would be carried out whether Canada was a constitutional monarchy or a republic. Canada does not give any money to support Queen Elizabeth II or the royal family. A republic would likely be just as expensive – for example, a President would probably cost just as much as our Prime Minister and Governor General combined. The enormous cost to change our constitution and system of government to become a republic would negate any money possibly saved.
Last but not least, the monarchy is best for Canada because it non-partisan. Our honourable, non-partisan Queen is the best choice for our head of state. She is a respected world-figure well known for her wisdom and regal grace. Monarchs are our best heads of state because all of their life they prepare to be King or Queen. Prime Ministers and Presidents, on the other hand, are merely partisan politicians. The Queen and her representatives in Canada (the Governor General and Lieutenant Governors) represent Canadians’ interests better because they are politically neutral. They make sure that our country is run fairly. They also unite all Canadians in allegiance to the crown, which is better than having a partisan President that may not even have the support of the majority of Canadians.
The Canadian monarchy represents everything we stand for as a country – including peace, freedom, fairness, and democracy. Our constitional monarchy is the best form of government!
