The Canadian Taxpayers Federation (CTF) is calling the NDP’s move to eliminate special legislative seats for some minorities a “victory for democracy.” The CTF demanded these seats be eliminated when it presented to theSelect Committee on Electoral Boundaries Commission in Truro on November 22nd and in a letter to the Speaker of the Legislature August 1st, 2011.
“Every Nova Scotian should be treated equally both inside and outside the legislature,” said Kevin Lacey, Atlantic Director for the CTF. “Its wrong to give special treatment because of the colour of ones skin or the language they speak, instead we should be governed by a legislature that puts equality of all Nova Scotians first.”
The CTF hopes the Acadian Federation does not proceed with a threatened law suit over the electoral boundaries. “Its time for the committee to get on with the work of drawing up new electoral boundaries that as close as possible represent everyone equally,” adds Lacey.
While the CTF is very happy with the decision on minority ridings, it was disappointed all three parties opposed our recommendation to reduce the number of the total number of MLAs in Nova Scotia.
“This is yet another example of our politicians looking out for themselves first and putting the interests of Nova Scotians second,” continued Lacey. “At a time when the province is running an over $300 million deficit and we are the highest taxed province in all of Canada, it’s disappointing that all three major political parities think it’s a priority to employ as many politicians as possible.”
The recommendation of fewer MLAs followed from Utility and Review Board (UARB) decision to cut the number of municipal councillors in the Cape Breton Regional Municipality and the Halifax Regional Municipality.
The CTF points out that without changes, after the 2012 municipal election 16 councillors will represent the Halifax Regional Municipality. However there will be 19 MLAs.
You can find more info on our presentation to the committee HERE.
You can find more info on our letter to Nova Scotia House Speaker HERE.
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