Proportional representation debate happening Saturday

A debate on whether to use proportional representation to elect B.C.’s MLAs is set for this Saturday.

It will be held in the Canfor Theatre at the University of Northern B.C.

Doors open at 11:30 a.m., the debate starts at noon and ends at 1 p.m. The debaters have agreed to remain on site until 1:30 p.m. to answer additional questions from attendees.

Vancouver-Fraser MP and former B.C. Liberal cabinet minister Suzanne Anton will represent No BC Proportional Representation Society and Prince George-based columnist and activist Peter Ewart will speak on behalf of Fair Vote B.C.

UNBC political science professor Gary Wilson will moderate.

The Prince George Chamber of Commerce is co-hosting the event which will be live-streamed via the Chamber’s Facebook page.

“It is vitally important that the electorate become knowledgeable on the formats for electing political parties and MLA’s in our province,” chamber CEO Todd Corrigall said.

“Changes to our electoral system must be fully vetted and delivered in a way that provides the greatest access and accountability of elected officials.

“B.C. has twice undertaken this process. However, the current referendum will be a mail-in ballot, which traditionally yields low voter turnout.”

A referendum by mail on the proposal will run from Oct. 22 to Nov. 30. Registered voters will get voting packages in the mail from Elections BC during that time.