Submission TAYLOR-MUNRO-0458 (Online)

Without the assurance that every vote counts, the level of voter participation in the civic process will continue to decline, with voter apathy and cynicism replacing confidence in our electoral system. [1 page]

First off, I would like to says that I supported the referendum initiative of two years ago because I saw that as the only way to ensure that every vote counts when it comes to representation in the political process. Without that assurance, the level of voter participation in the civic process will continue to decline and may soon approach the 30% mark, with voter apathy and cynicism replacing confidence in our electoral system.

The under-30 age group in particular sees little reason to take an interest in our political life and therefore does not bother to vote. How can we turn this sad situation around? Some say more time needs to be spent in our schools discussing civics. That might help, but until they can believe that their votes matter, we give them little reason to take and interest or become involved.