Unfortunately, I only found out about this deadline today, so this
will be a rather short submittion. I strongly urge you to recommend
a mixed member proportional [MMP] system similar to the one in
place in some European countries such as Germany and in New
Zealand. As a former resident of Germany, I am very familiar with
the mixed member proportional system. It has allowed smaller
parties to be represented in parliament - resulting in a more
dynamic political system which allows for new currents to have some
input. Obviously, the need to allow new parties to have access to
the political system, and have them represent the public who votes
for them, needs to be balanced with the need to maintain political
stability and not have the legistlature full of small parties -
making it difficult for a single party or small coaltion to govern.
As you may be aware, the German system has a 5% hurdle - which
means, parties have to at least get 5% of the popular vote before
they can be represented in the legislature. I believe such a
provision would provide for the necessary balance between allowing
new ideas and avoiding a "splinter" legislature.
It is time that people's votes are fairly represented in our
legislature. The current first past the post system clearly does
not do that and results in situations where a party with 22% of the
popular vote only receives 2 seats - clearly not enough to form an
effective opposition. The legislature should represent the broad
spectrum of ideas of BC's citizens, not result in one party and
platform completely dominating the political landscape. That's when
dialogue stops, when parties think they have the mandate to do
whatever they want without considering other perspectives and
viewpoints.
I believe BC has the chance to lead the way to a more democratic
and fair electoral system for Canada. I hope you will recommend a
mixed member proportional system.
|
levelCMS