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Submission SHARP-0901 (Online)

Submission By Jacqueline Sharp
AddressBurnaby, BC, Canada
Organization
Date20040729
CategoryElectoral system change
Abstract
I beleive that our electoral system must be reformed to proportionally represent the wishes of BC's voters in the distribution of seats in the Legislature [PR]. Our current system ignores the wishes of many citizens. [1 page]

Submission Content

I am writing to share my strongly-held belief that our electoral system must be reformed to proportionally represent the wishes of BC's voters in the distribution of seats in the Legislature [PR]. Our current system ignores the wishes of many citizens, whose votes are wasted if their candidate does not win a plurality in their particular riding. This leads to governments that are not representative of voters' desires, leading to voter apathy and reduced interest in government, as many voters feel no connection with the government that has been elected.

A system is urgently needed that counts the vote of every citizen. Every voter should see their vote reflected in the make-up of the government. This will lead to governments that enjoy broader public support, an increase in voter interest and turnout, and a truer form of democracy in British Columbia.

There are many alternative forms of proportional representation, and the Citizens' Assembly will have an opportunity to review the strengths and weaknesses of each one. As long as the system selected is representative of voters' preferences (e.g. a party that receives 20% of the vote will receive 20% of the seats in government), so that every vote truly counts, I have faith in the Citizens' Assembly to recommend a suitable system for British Columbia.

Good luck in your task and thank you for addressing such a critical issue. I look forward to the implementation of a fair, representative and democratic voting system in British Columbia.

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