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Submission BLACOE-0379 (Online)

Submission By David Blacoe
AddressVictoria, BC, Canada
Organization
Date20040511
CategoryElectoral system change
Abstract
We need better representation in the legislature; the Mixed-Member Proportional (MMP) system used in New Zealand is one system that will give us better representation in the BC legislature. [1 page]

Submission Content
I am convinced we live in a false democracy today. Our current system creates too much uncertainty as the new government dismantles the policies and programs of the previous government. Businesses suffer, citizens suffer and sometimes Canada's reputation suffers.

The First-Past-The-Post (FPTP) system is dysfunctional. Politicians think they get elected on their platform, but I believe voters are motivated less by the party platform and more against the current government when they vote on election day. Then , when the time four years is up for the new government, voters are once again angry with the current government and, at election time, vote against the current government. It's a vicious cycle created by the FPTP and it needs to be fixed.

Government needs a better method to balance the social needs of the province against the financial needs of the province. To do this we need better representation in the legislature; the Mixed-Member Proportional (MMP) system used in New Zealand is one system that will give us better representation in the BC legislature.

The MMP used in New Zealand would suit BC because the two places share a common history. Both places were colonies of Britain. Both places inherited the FPTP from Britain. Both places have a strong aboriginal voice. And both places have voters who recognize the old FPTP is dysfunctional and not suited for a multiparty system.

New Zealand changed their system years ago. Today they have: better representation for women, better aboriginal rights and cooperation; a more stable political environment for business to operate; and, a more content population.

BC should learn from the New Zealand example, adopt the system, and make any adjustments after the FPTP system is abandoned. The MMP system may not be perfect for BC the first time, but it will be a tremendous step forward.

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