Democratic Renewal

Devolin Column

September 7, 2006


During the last federal election I was asked on numerous occasions “What can we do to get more young people to vote?”

This question was a response to media reports that suggested that turnout for those less than 30 years of age in the 2004 election was less than 30%. I think we can do better. 

In response, I promised that (if re-elected) I would reach out to voters in their teens and twenties in an effort to identify constructive ideas to bring these young people into the democratic process.

This past spring you may have noticed a pamphlet in your mailbox that outlined a 4-step process aimed at democratic renewal.

This provided a brief overview of several issues that are key to the debate. But most importantly, I wanted to hear your ideas. That is why the document included a questionnaire where you could provide your comments and suggestions.

The response was unbelievable! We received roughly 1000 completed forms from residents of all ages expressing their views on this important topic. However, the unfortunate part of all of this is that less than 20 responses were from those under the age of 25.

While I thank all that responded, this effort shows that we need to do more to attract young people to get involved in the political process.

To that end, I will continue with the second step in the 4-step process and hold a non-partisan session this fall where guest lecturers will discuss such issues as political repetition, fixed election dates, the senate and voting technology.

During that session, I’ll complete the third step and ask attendees to complete a detailed questionnaire based on the material presented and ask participants to offer their suggestions for change.

Finally, feedback from both questionnaires will be compiled and I will use this information to table a summary document in the House of Commons.

This initiative is not only a priority for me, but also of our government. You may recall that earlier this year Prime Minister Stephen Harper reminded Canadians that he intends to move forward on democratic reform and will propose fixed election dates for the House of Commons. The Government has also served notice it intends to propose reforms to the Senate. 

The Prime Minister announced that the government will introduce a bill calling for fixed election dates every four years. This bill will propose the next election take place in the fall of 2009. 

The Prime Minister also pledged to make the Senate a more modern and democratic institution to better reflect the voice of Canada’s regions. As many of you know, I believe that a 21st century legislature cannot remain dominated by appointees who may sit for decades without a democratic mandate and have the ability to alter the laws that have been democratically created by the elected members of the House of Commons.

I look forward to a healthy discussion locally, and I am confident our final report will make a worthwhile contribution to the national debate on democratic renewal.