Disappointing turnout
Few Islanders engaging with P.E.I. Electoral Boundaries Commission
The chairman of the P.E.I. Boundaries Commission is disappointed, but not surprised, with an apparent lack of public interest in his group’s mission. Gerard Mitchell recently made a presentation to the Rotary Club of Summerside regarding the mandate and importance of the commission’s work in redrawing the province’s electoral boundaries. During his talk, Mitchell noted the lack of attendance at most of the public engagement sessions held so far. Just five more, of the 14 scheduled meetings, have yet to be held, including the March 29 session at Ellerslie Elementary and the March 30 one at Westisle.
They were never expecting huge turnouts, said Mitchell, but were hoping for more than the one or two people at some of the meetings.
“It may be that there is a bit of meeting fatigue going on – schools naturally taking a priority. But on the other hand, there has been traditionally a small turnout for boundaries commissions,” said Mitchell.
That being said, however, he added, that he has been pleased with the feedback that those few who have been attending have provided. Their input has been, mostly, well thought out and informative.
There have also been a number of written submissions to the commission.
The commission’s report to the legislature is due, unless an extension is granted for some reason, on June 6.
Many Islanders could see changes to their electoral districts in that report. The Electoral Boundaries Act states that no district can be above or below the average number of voters in all districts by more than 25 per cent. There are currently three that do not meet that qualification, including District 24, Evangeline-Miscouche.
Anyone who would like to attend one of the commission’s public feedback meetings or provide commentary in another way can find more information online at www.electoralboundaries.pe.ca.