The effort to renovate the electoral system is to be greatly
admired. One need only observe the current
disfunctional disaster in the BC Legislature to agree that the
system is broken.
However, the proportional representation debate will address
only part of the problem.
In my view, career politicians are a large part of our
problem. Failures in any number of disciplines, and
those individuals who perceive public office as a road to a well
compensated livelihood, (and a method of gaining influence in any
future pursuits) are a massive drawback to our failing system.
I would ask the Assembly, if it is within the terms of
reference, to consider that a time (or term) limitation on elected
office could cause a renewed interest in politics. No
longer could the "Old Boys" network steer their tame politicians in
any direction desired. An elected politician would know
that at the end of 2 or 3 terms, he, or she, would have to regain
meaningful employment. A more modest pension and
severance scheme could provide a cushion to help return the
ex-politician to the realm of reality.
As an example, our current Premier has lived upon the avails of
politics for nearly thirty years, following the demise of his
development company. Consider the Federal scene, with
the endless stream of politicians spending 25 or 30 years in the
pursuit of any office available! And upon defeat, a synecure in the
Senate or crown corporation is usually found.
After dozens of years in , or seeking, office, a new or novel
approach is not in the realm of possibility. I do not single out
any party, as in my view they are all equally responsible.
Please try to consider my arguments on their merit, as you are
the single hope of a reform in our Government.