Local MP Jamie Schmale is seeking input and feedback from all constituents on Electoral Reform.
“In 2015, the liberal government declared its intention to ensure that, ‘2015 will be the last election under first past the post’ (ie. the present electoral system). However, the government has not stated what Canada’s new voting system will look like,” explained Schmale.
While the government is accepting public input, it is primarily by means of a Special Committee, which will report back to the House of Commons in December.
“I believe all Canadians should have a fair and equal say regarding any changes to our country’s future voting system,” said Schmale. “As Member of Parliament, I not only enjoy hearing from and talking with my constituents, but it is vital to representing their views and wishes in Ottawa.”
To ensure the voices of families and farmers, business owners and entrepreneurs, seniors and young adults and every resident of Haliburton-Kawartha Lakes-Brock is heard, Schmale will be conducting his second constituency referendum, this time on Electoral Reform.
“Our voting system belongs to all of us,” said Schmale. “We should all have a say in what happens next.”
Over the next few weeks, every household in Haliburton-Kawartha Lakes-Brock will receive an information package regarding Electoral Reform, arguments both for and against, a timeline and constituent ballots.
The ballots can be filled-out and returned by mail, postage-free, by September 30. If a household does not receive a copy of the constituency referendum publication, or if more ballots are required for larger households, additional ballots will be made available by contacting the constituency office.
A copy of the publication will be available at www.jamieschmale.ca. Constituents cannot vote electronically; however they can print out the ballot and mail it in, postage-free. KG
