Should Canadian MPs Be More Independent?

That was the question Massey College's Public Policy Chair, Tom Axworthy, put to a panel of distinguished experts, including Dennis Mills as a former Parliamentarian, at a live event on January 6, 2026.

Moderated by Tom Axworthy, the session explores the growing tension between Canada’s elected Members of Parliament and the expanding power of the Prime Minister’s Office and executive branch.

Many observers argue that MPs have become overly constrained by party discipline, communications control, and the centralization of decision-making in Ottawa. Others maintain that a cohesive executive is essential for responsible government.
Hosted live and streamed on January 6, 2026 from Massey College in the University of Toronto, the panel features:

Sabreena Delhon , CEO at the Samara Centre for Democracy and Senior Fellow at Massey College

Dennis Mills, Former member of Parliament, author of From the ⁠Wood Chair to the Green Chair⁠

Arvind Krishendehol, Junior Fellow, Massey College, Doctoral Candidate in Political Science


For complete video visit the Massey College YouTube Channel (Visit ⁠   / @masseycollege  )

Also be sure to visit Dennis Mills' YouTube channel (⁠   / @thelifeofaservant  ) as well as Dennis' website, ⁠www.dennismills.com⁠.

All original production of this episode was provided by Massey College. This episode is not monetized in any way, and is provided for public information and education.


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