Say ‘no’ to proportional representation

In theory, proportional representation is a good thing. It’s hard to frown on any system that creates more collaboration and consultation and gives a louder voice to the majority of the people.

Under a proportional system, the number of seats in the B.C. Legislature would be comparable to a party’s share of the votes. This differs greatly from the present “winner take all,” system where the party with the most seats forms government. The exception is a coalition, such as the one formed this year with the Green and NDP.

British Columbians twice voted down proportional representation in referendums, most recently in 2009. The federal Liberals abandoned its promise, even after considerable research, to eliminate the firstpast-the-post system. Prime Minister Justin Trudeau realized there were far greater issues to tackle than educating the public on a new way of voting.

The greatest drawback to proportional representation is that no matter how well it’s explained, average Canadians don't understand how it works. It's too academic.

Unless the BC Liberals mount a strong campaign against proportional representation, fringe parties will hold the balance of power in the province.

A constant criticism of B.C. politics is that it's been a twoparty system for too long. (B.C. could benefit from a true centrist party.) The Greens made considerable inroads this year, winning three seats on Vancouver Island — three more than any other provincial party in Canada has ever elected. In 2013, the provincial Conservatives appeared ready to steal a few seats from the Liberals, but self-imploded before the election and finished no better than third in any riding.

There is evidence to suggest that with proportional representation, rural B.C. and other unique areas, such as the Shuswap and Kootenays will be ignored.

For the fringe parties, here are some better suggestions than proportional representation.

Recruit and run stronger candidates, ones who will inspire new voters to head out to the polls.

Consider investing most of your dollars and effort in key ridings that can be won. This strategy, used to have Elizabeth May elected as Canada's first Green MP, worked.

While you’re at it, introduce online voting. In an era when multi-million dollar bank transactions are done electronically, a fair and safe voting system from home could be designed.

First past the post has worked well for years, a change is not necessary.