A non-partisan Electoral Reform Town Hall was held at Sheridan College on Monday, September 12, 2016. The event drew a crowd of over 175 participants who filled multiple levels of the college cafeteria as the evening progressed, and provided amazing insight on what Electoral Reform would look like in Canada.
“The Town Hall on electoral reform with MP John Oliver on Monday evening was one of the best we have had thus far," stated MP Mark Holland, Parliamentary Secretary to the Minister of Democratic Reform.
Dr. Zabudsky, who co-hosted the Town Hall, welcomed the crowd to Sheridan College, explaining that the cafeteria was being used as the evening’s venue because the large influx of students needed every inch of space for instructional use. He then outlined the process for the evening, whereby roundtable discussions were held at each table, with participants changing tables and topics part way through. An open mike session was held at the end.
“We were pleased to be able to host this event at Sheridan, and to see the community engaged in a meaningful discussion on this important topic.” Dr. Jeff Zabudsky, President and Vice Chancellor
As part of the evening, special guest Mark Holland, the Parliamentary Secretary to the Minister of Democratic Reform attended. Mr. Holland spoke of the work of the Special Committee on Electoral Reform and the government’s commitment to having an open process and to genuinely listening and reaching out to Canadians. He then took the crowd through some general principles of the different types of electoral reform, stressing that the government had not made any decisions about the preferred approach. Mr. Holland has been travelling the country taking part in similar consultations and town halls.
“The Town Hall on electoral reform with MP John Oliver on Monday evening was one of the best we have had thus far. The engagement, knowledge and passion of those in attendance was remarkable. I’d like to thank the constituents of Oakville for joining us to add their voices to this important discussion,” stated MP Mark Holland, Parliamentary Secretary to the Minister of Democratic Reform.
Monday’s event was live-streamed through Facebook. Community members wishing to continue the conversation are invited to submit their comments to Mr. Oliver at [email protected]. In addition, submissions can be sent directly to the Special Committee on Electoral Reform at Canada.ca/democracy.
Federal Electoral Reform is part of the Government of Canada’s commitment to strengthen our democracy. Everyone’s vote matters and everyone should feel that their vote counts.