New information has been added since this went live:

The Prime Minister’s Office said the Trudeau-era process that largely excluded partisans needs to end.

“This decision recognizes the valuable contributions made by Canadians who have chosen to serve in elected office or in other partisan roles, including knowledge of the governing and legislative processes, which will contribute to a stronger, more effective Senate,” the PMO said in a news release.

To that end, the PMO said the Independent Advisory Board for Senate Appointments, which has been used to sort through applications from would-be senators with an eye to those who are “independent and non-partisan,” will be reconstituted.

“Guided by constitutional requirements and merit-based criteria, the board will identify highly qualified candidates with diverse experience and perspectives, and make recommendations to the prime minister,” the PMO said.

“Canadians are invited to apply to serve in the Senate through an application process that will open in the coming weeks.”

“Partisan” is an understandably dirty word, but I think the biggest strength of the Trudeau reforms is the lack of a party whip - I hope the Senate retains its relative independence.