For Immediate Release
May 11, 2016
Electoral reformers across the country are relieved and thrilled to see the launch of the Special Committee on Electoral Reform.
“Canadians have been clear. Sixty-three percent of the electorate voted in 2015 for parties promising Voter Equality – to Make Every Vote Count. They want equal and effective votes,” said Fair Vote Canada President Gary Shaul.
Proportional representation fits nicely with the Minister’s principles for conducting the consultations. We know, after 13 previous studies and commissions and through a robust collection of research, the principle of proportional representation checks every box:
(a) Effectiveness and legitimacy – providing effective votes for most voters, proportional representation provides legitimacy to developing and implementing the laws that govern all Canadians;
(b) Engagement – With up to 8% higher turnout, proportional systems do a better job of engaging voters because voters know their votes count. When underrepresented groups are included in the political process, national unity will be enhanced since we will no longer shut out voters for some parties in some regions;
(c) Accessibility and inclusiveness – Over 90 countries including 85% of OECD nations have proven proportional systems are inclusive and easy to follow once people engage with the new system;
(d) Integrity – Proportional systems will build integrity when votes are translated honestly into seats and almost everyone can have a representative aligned with their values;
(e) Local representation – Proportional representation is a family of systems, and we know that every country needs to adapt models to meet their specific needs and geography. Fair Vote Canada calls for all candidates to be locally nominated democratically, and elected by constituents.
“We encourage all Canadians to join the debate on how our new electoral system must address our democratic deficit. It’s time to change our electoral system so that it reflects Canadian values”, said Fair Vote Canada Vice-President David Merner.
Fair Vote Canada has been down this road before. We encourage this Government and the media to embark on an informed, honest discussion to fairly represent all democratic options. Let’s work together to build an all-party consensus or strong majority on a new electoral system that will make every vote count.
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