February 1, 2013: The New Democrats are committed to making Parliament more civil. As one method of improving how our democratic institutions work, NDP House Leader Nathan Cullen has tabled a motion to deal more effectively with Members of Parliament (MPs) who behave badly in Parliament.

His motion asks that the Speaker of the House of Commons be given more powers to sanction MPs - including the ability to suspend MPs and withhold the pay of repeat offenders. You can read the full text of the motion here: http://www.ndp.ca/news/official-opposition-tables-motion-to-improve-civility-house-commons.

Mr. Cullen sees our Civility Project as a way forward to improving decorum and the quality of debate in Parliament. He said, "To stand and speak in the House of Commons is an enormous privilege. When we fail to do our job with respect and civility, MPs should lose that privilege."

Looking forward, New Democrats want to work with all parties to help build a better House of Commons. It's time to improve the conduct of debates, Question Period and all facets of Parliamentary interaction so we can further engage voters and enhance Canadian democracy.

To help us promote civility in Parliament and to have your voice heard, signing our petition here: http://ndp.ca/civility.

You can find out more information and updates by visiting The Civility Project's Facebook page at: https://www.facebook.com/thecivilityproject.