Our present electoral system is failing Canadians. The reasons are complex, but in basic terms majority governments are regularly elected with less than a majority of votes. And too often, a political party’s standing in the House of Commons doesn’t reflect how many Canadians actually voted for them.
Many Canadians don’t feel their voices are being heard. Many think this is why voter turnout has been steadily dropping over the past few decades.
This is why CUPE has joined other unions and allies in calling for change. We are calling for a system that better reflects the political preferences of Canadian voters.
This March, our national executive board passed a resolution supporting the introduction of a mixed-member proportional representation system in federal elections. This system combines
proportional representation of parties in Parliament with the direct election of an MP in each constituency. It is a fairer system and will help ensure the House of Commons is more representative of Canadians’ political views.
Starting this summer, every MP will be holding a town hall meeting on electoral reform. They will report back what they hear in their constituencies to a special Parliamentary committee that will guide reforms to our voting system.
It’s important that CUPE members be heard in these town halls. This is our opportunity to make sure our electoral system truly reflects the wishes and interests of workers. I encourage CUPE members to attend the town halls in their ridings, and tell their MP why proportional representation is the best choice for a fairer Canada.
Mark Hancock
National President
@CUPENatPres
