EXECUTIVE SUMMARY
This paper is meant to advance the debate about adding an element of proportional representation (PR) to Canada’s electoral system by offering concrete proposals for discussion and debate. The paper begins by outlining why electoral reform is necessary, why PR can greatly improve our system and how we can maximize the benefits of PR in Canada with the least disruption to our current system. Following a brief outline of the two families of electoral systems proposed to date (mixed-member and single transferable vote), I recommend adoption of a mixed-member proportional (MMP) system - a hybrid system combining the benefits of our current first-past-the-post system with the benefits of proportionality. However, within this family of electoral systems is considerable choice and variation. One of my goals is to move the debate from whether we should change to a more focused discussion on possible alternatives.
Two alternative models are presented - both mixed-member systems - each differing on a number of variables: the overall size of Parliament, the number and size of local ridings, how local members are elected, how regional members are elected and the scale of the regions for who these new members speak. A series of Appendices outline each model in detail and simulate how the votes from the 2004 Election would have been re-allocated under these Alternatives (noting, of course, that this does not take into account the expected change in voter behaviour as a result of a new, more representative electoral system). Also provided are details of what other nations (Scotland, Wales, New Zealand) have done in moving from first-past-the-post systems to mixed-member systems.
Finally, I outline potential implications of moving to a mixed-member system. The discussion paper concludes with a sketch of how we might move from discussion to action. Canadians deserve fair representation; the current system has served us well, but as Canada becomes a more diverse nation, its electoral system must be fine-tuned to allow for this diversity of voices to be presented in Parliament.