A debate is being held in Prince George ahead of a provincewide referendum on Proportional Representation.
Through a partnership between the University of Northern BC and the PG Chamber of Commerce, the merits of both Proportional Representation and First Past the Post will be held next month.
“It is vitally important that the electorate become knowledgeable on the formats for electing political parties and MLA’s in our Province. Changes to our electoral system must be fully vetted and delivered in a way that provides the greatest access and accountability of elected officials,” said Todd Corrigall, CEO of the Prince George Chamber of Commerce, in a statement.
“BC has twice undertaken this process. However, the current referendum will be a mail-in ballot, which traditionally yields low voter turnout.”
The Honourable Suzanne Anton, Q.C., MLA for Vancouver-Fraserview, will represent the No BC Proportional Representation Society. Countering on behalf of Fair Vote BC is Peter Ewart, a local columnist and writer, and spokesperson for the Stand Up for the North Committee. Department of Political Science Acting Chair Gary N. Wilson will moderate.
The debate is in the Canfor Theatre at UNBC on October 13th and will start at 11:30am.
For the referendum, voters can ask for a voting package as early as November 3rd. Elections BC must have your ballot by November 30th.