Editor:
Whatever one’s views are with regards to the “first past the post” versus proportional representation discussion, one thing becomes increasingly clear – this referendum was rigged, biased, and prejudiced from the beginning.
1. The format, questions, and timing of the referendum were developed and decided by political insiders, rather than by an unbiased, arms-length citizens’ committee.
2. The referendum rules were equally set by politicians. It is outrageous that such an important decision should be allowed to pass by a simple majority of 50 per cent plus one, and that no minimum percentage of voter participation is required.
3. In addition, it is an inexcusable waste of taxpayers’ money to hold a separate referendum, rather than making it part of a general provincial election. This decision too was made by our politicians in power, to make sure that the outcome swings in their favour.
It is not only anti-PR personalities who have criticized the process and methods applied in developing this referendum. Indeed, prominent former NDP politicians, including two former NDP premiers, have been highly critical of the blatant bias and political interference deployed by the government in power, to ensure that the outcome goes their way. Shame on them. I hope that voters will remember this when they cast their vote.
Fred Stark, Halfmoon Bay
