Editor:
Re: B.C. needs fairer representation, Sept. 22 editorial.
It is indeed important to make the citizens aware of the misrepresentation in the House of Commons as at present.
Western Canada is far behind, because of the 1867 decisions, time before the west joined the Confederation, causing the idea of entitlement by Central and Eastern Canada, particular Quebec.
If the nation would have a referendum on the matter, all east of the Manitoba border would lose enough seats to fill with western members of Parliament, causing no need to increase the number of seats, which would cost the taxpayer millions.
Reference was made to the Charlottetown referendum, to which B.C. said, with 72 per cent, ‘no.’ Now look over your shoulder at some of the issues we have been ordered to accept, regardless the ‘no’ – distinct society; native self government; Quebec a state. All those are not recognized by the Constitution, as we only support federal, provincial and municipal governments.
Public opinion means little in Ottawa after an election, no matter if we voted for the members.
So what will Minister Peter Van Loan decide after he receives the results of the 2011 Census, showing that power – population – has moved to the west?
Suan H. Booiman, White Rock