Editor:
Re: “Reason to vote no” by Bill Tieleman, Letters, Nov. 9.
I suggest that Mr. Tieleman examine more closely the whole story, be more accurate and stop the spin and fear-mongering.
1. Mr. Tieleman states that two of the proportional systems have never been used. This is entirely misleading. Dual member is the only system that has not been used. However, it was designed by a Canadian and is very simple. Rural-urban is a combination of two well used and researched systems that have been combined in order to take into account our unique B.C. geography.
2. Much of Mr. Tieleman’s statement about MMP is just plain false or misleading. All four B.C. parties are on record as being in favour of open lists (all MLAs are voted on directly). Therefore, regional MLAs will be voted on after being nominated by parties (just as we do now). There will be no black box of unknown “party hacks” foisted on the citizens. The regional MLAs would be answerable to their regional constituents – just like any other MLA.
3. As for how parties decide their candidates (the correct term!), that will be up to the parties – just as it is now. Parties vote for their nominees. If you have a problem with a party’s candidates, you don’t have to vote for them.
4. There will be larger rural ridings. In most cases, this is true – and there will be more balanced and better representation. Rural voters are more likely to have a voice in government that aligns with their values.
5. There will be larger urban ridings: this is also true, yet it is not a negative. The ridings will still be small geographically and there will be better and more balanced representation with a team of MLAs.
6. Mr. Tieleman may find this all too confusing but people all over the world have managed to use various PR systems quite successfully and I know that we are equally capable.
7. Since Mr. Tieleman has fought against all proposals for proportional systems, I am forced to conclude that he prefers governments that 60 per cent of the voters did not want.
8. Don’t forget to send in your ballots. Look forward to the day when you can vote for who you want and see your vote reflected in the legislature. If you need more information, check out: www.fairvote.ca/systems and www.referendumguide.ca
Bet Cecill, Gibsons
