Opposition seeks feedback

Modernizing P.E.I.’s legislative assembly

The Island’s Opposition leader wants residents to weigh in on how to reform and modernize P.E.I.’s legislative assembly.

Progressive Conservative leader, James Aylward, released a public discussion paper this week called “Modernizing the House: Moving Towards A More Efficient and Inclusive Assembly.”

“I’ve asked for a full review of the rules of the legislative assembly by the standing committee on rules, regulations, private bills and privileges that includes public engagement,” said Aylward.

“Islanders elect the people who sit in the house so they should have a voice in the rules of the house also.”

The discussion paper outlines initiatives that would update house procedures, introduce legislative reforms, and strengthen accountability measures such as:

— A defined legislative calendar to improve review of budgets and legislation and improve efficient operation of the house

— A code of conduct for MLAs and legislative assembly staff

— More equity in party membership on legislative committees and secret ballot elections for committee chairs

— Accepting electronic petitions from the public

— Greater use of open data practices to share public information with the public

Several legislative reforms have been implemented in recent years, including audio recordings and live streaming of legislative committees and clarification of the role of the Speaker.

Reforms such as increased accountability for responses to written questions and expanded use of open data practices remain works in progress.

The discussion paper on legislative reform can be found at http://bit.ly/2BqxzC6.