Senator Says Growing List of Vacancies Signals ‘The End of an Era’ for Independence

Senators sit physically distanced as they listen to Gov. Gen Julie Payette deliver the Speech from the Throne at the Senate of Canada Building in Ottawa, on Sept. 23, 2020. Justin Tang/The Canadian Press

Senators say they’re concerned about the growing list of vacancies in the upper chamber, as the appointment process for new members remains unclear.

There are currently nine vacant seats in the Senate, with six more senators due to retire by the end of 2026. Prime Minister Mark Carney has not appointed any senators since taking office last spring.