“We’re disappointed with the results,” said Vote PR BC spokesperson Maria Dobrinskaya. “However, we’re also incredibly proud of all those British Columbians who came together to fight for a more positive politics, and how much impact we collectively had.

“We ran a campaign that focused on presenting a positive vision of fairness for all voters, and on showing how a new way of voting would work better for everyone. We’re proud of the positive information campaign we ran. We didn’t resort to fear tactics or distortions, as our opponents did. Instead, we focused on a respectful, positive debate based on facts.

“We knew it would be challenging to help the public learn enough about Pro Rep to feel confident in giving up the status quo, especially with three systems on the ballot. In the end, a majority of voters chose to stick with what they knew. We respect their choice,” said Dobrinskaya.

“It’s clear from this result that many voters continue to feel disenfranchised from and excluded by our current system,” said Vote PR BC President Antony Hodgson. “People have real and legitimate concerns with politics as usual, and it’s incumbent on those who have defended the status quo to work with all the citizens of BC to make our democracy more responsive to the needs and will of the people.

“The principle of voter equality that underlies the drive for proportional representation is more relevant than ever,” Hodgson said. “Canadians continue to be frustrated with the outcomes of First Past the Post elections, and with governments who don’t accurately reflect the will of the electorate. The conversation on democratic reform will continue until these problems have been adequately addressed.”