PEI vote shows growing consensus on proportional representation

NDP Democratic Reform Critic Nathan Cullen (Skeena–Bulkley Valley) and Deputy Democratic Reform Critic Alexandre Boulerice (Rosemont–La Petite-Patrie) issued the following statement on the results of the Prince Edward Island plebiscite to adopt a mixed-member proportional voting system:

“For the last four months, the Special Committee on Electoral Reform has been traveling the country, hearing loud and clear that Canadians are ready for a fair and proportional voting system. Last night, Prince Edward Island took an important step in showing our country the way by selecting mixed-member proportional representation.

“Across Canada, there is a palpable desire for change in how we elect our representatives to increase fairness and accountability. Canadians expect the Prime Minister to make good on his promise to make every vote count. The result of PEI’s electoral reform process is historic and paves the way for change at a federal level.

“We congratulate Islanders on this important step in strengthening their democracy. It was on Prince Edward Island that Confederation was confirmed 149 years ago. The birthplace of confederation is truly showing Canada a path forward. In the new year, Canada will turn 150 years old. New Democrats can think of no better birthday gift than a fair, proportional, 21^st century voting system where every vote counts.”