LE3 .A278 2000

2000

Adamson, Agar

Acadia University

Master of Arts

Masters

Political Science

Politics

This thesis examines the pressure group politics prevalent in the legislative process of Bill C-68. This case study titled, "Under the Gun: Pressure Group Politics Surrounding Bill C-68 in Canada," determines the effectiveness of lobbying strategies employed by key groups in relation to the level of influence exerted on the state elite during Bill C-68's legislative journey. This examination will describe that the environment in which Bill C-68 was formulated followed a pluralistic model. Pressure groups from both sides of the debate galvanized their positions to promote their interests to the media, the Canadian electorate, and most importantly to effect the political decisions of state actors. Although the level of contact by interest groups and level of consultation within the policy community was extraordinary and challenged the role of the government and the political will of its actors, the autonomy of the state was not jeopardized. Consequently, the author argues that political leadership supplemented by party discipline afforded this legislation safe passage through parliament and sufficient insulation for the state elite concerning pressure group influence.

The author retains copyright in this thesis. Any substantial copying or any other actions that exceed fair dealing or other exceptions in the Copyright Act require the permission of the author.

https://scholar.acadiau.ca/islandora/object/theses:2974