Article content

The Throne Speech delivered on Sept. 8 repeated the New Democratic Party’s election platform and the details of the agreement the NDP and the Green Party struck in May.

One of these details was electoral reform. The speech stated that the “government will set the terms for a referendum on proportional representation to take place no later than November 2018.” It will “actively campaign in favour of reform” and ensure that “every vote counts.”

We apologize, but this video has failed to load.

tap here to see other videos from our team. Try refreshing your browser, or Opinion: Much work needs to be done ahead of electoral reform vote Back to video

These broad, and vague sentences on reform obscure just how much work needs to be done between now and fall 2018.

The fact is, it is not enough to just hold a referendum on electoral reform. It is important that this referendum be run properly. And, a properly run referendum requires much more than just signing some legislation, mailing a few flyers, and expecting British Columbians to flock to the polls.

In order for this electoral reform process to be done well, the NDP needs to put plans in place for consultation and education processes. They also need to commit to participating in a concerted effort to drive turnout up for this referendum.