'Major changes' needed in Senate, says Elizabeth Marshall

A senator from Newfoundland and Labrador says there is political will for a major overhaul of the federal institution.

Elizabeth Marshall says the time is right forchange, following a few difficult years for the Senate.

"We have to restore confidence in the Senate, and the first thing we have to do is get our own house in order," she said.

Marshall made the comments in the wake of this week's report by federal Auditor General Michael Ferguson.

• Auditor general cites lack of oversight for Senate spending mess

Ferguson's report flagged 30 current or former senators for questionable spending claims totaling nearly one million dollars.

While there were no concerns raised about Marshall's expenses, she still agrees something has to give and hopes she canbe part of that process.

"I'm quite happy to be there in the Senate, and I'm going to be there as part of a major change," she said.

"I think I can make a contribution, and that's what I'm focused on."