Re: electoral systems.
I guess it all depends on how Mr. Dale defines "winner."
We are not talking about a horse race. We are talking about how to represent the diversity of people's interests and opinions. I don't think we are winners when less than 40 per cent of the voters have 100 per cent of the power. I don't think the voters are winners when 60 per cent of the voters have no one to represent their voice and ideas. I don't think British Columbians win when regional differences are exacerbated and Liberal voters in traditional NDP ridings are rarely represented in the house.
Are proportional representation systems a cure all? Of course not. The design of the system, the context in which it is applied and many other forces have an effect on the outcome. However what is very clearly true is that well-designed systems, appropriate to the context, encourage cooperation, produce fewer large swings in public policy, produce better long-term planning and give a more effective voice to the often unrepresented voter.
I do wonder why those who support our current system prefer a more undemocratic system.
It really is time to modernize our electoral system in British Columbia and move towards a more cooperative future.
Bet Cecill,
Gibsons, B.C.
