The Editor,
Since the federal election of 1921, we have elected members from at least three political parties, making the current first-past-the-post electoral system undemocratic by dictionary definition.
Then, too, the so called “majority” is not meeting the dictionary definition of the word. During the past number of years, both the Conservatives and Liberals have taken advantage of this, and the results are no input from the opposition.
In the last election, the Conservatives received about 40 per cent of the votes but had 166 seats. By my math, 40 per cent of 308 seats is 123 of those seats. This means six out of 10 voters supported an opposition members, and they have very little to say as to modifying bills, the dividing up of those ominous bills, having a fair representation in committees, the limiting of time allocations, etc.
I believe the problem is not with the parties as such but the system by which we elect our members to government. A form of proportional representation would make for more harmony in government. In a growing number of countries, they are using a form of this system. The solution is to have a referendum, at the same time as the up-and-coming federal election.
What is a referendum? It mean that when voting you will have a separate ballot, where in this case you would select one of the choices as to the system we would use in the future when electing our MPs.
How do we get to have a referendum? The public will have to force the government, in this case, the Harper Conservatives, to have one.
How can that be done? Many of us will have to speak up, and with many voices this will make for a better chance in achieving the goal.
So discuss this letter with family and friends, using the latest methods of communicating. I am hoping you will contact your MP and insist that he or she will relay this desire of having a referendum.
If you have any problems in obtaining your MP’s web address or e-mail, you must remember that pen and paper is still very effective. Every message counts, so let’s snow under our MPs.
Now is the time for the youth to have their voices heard. With a true democrativ system of voting, there will be programs that are outside the government’s philosophy. Current examples might include more protection to the environment, more fair and just programs for the vets, perhaps more jobs with a living wage and other.
Thanks for your time in reading my letter and no get your note off to your MP.
Zane Williamson
Smith Falls, Ont.
