Well folks, Doug Ford’s freshly sworn in PC Government is already knees deep into yet another scandal with the appointment of the Premier’s nephew, Michael Ford, as Minister of Multiculturalism.
The term nepotism shoudn’t be thrown around lightly and Michael Ford may end up being well suited for the position, however, you can’t help but wonder why someone who has never been an MPP before would be promoted so quickly to a cabinet position.
The problem is the complete lack of accountability in our electoral system when governments try to commit questionable appointments like this. Whether voters like it or not, First Past the Post has given Ford a blank cheque to do whatever he wants for the next four years, and if he wants to make his nephew a minister…then there really isn’t much we can do to stop it.
But it isn’t just nepotism. Sadly, Canadian history is filled with scandals and other tales of parties abusing their absolute majority to bend the system to their will. A shameful side-effect of our winner-take-all electoral system.
If Ford wanted to make his nephew a minister in a proportional system, then he would need the approval of the other parties to do so, creating a crucial check on the Premier and his party’s ability to push through whatever they want.
Ultimately, it’s about how we build accountability into our system instead of allowing parties to operate unchecked until the next election. Because, it’s far easier to be corrupt in a system where you have all the power than in a system where you need to share it.
Pride Festival Volunteer Recap
Fair Vote Toronto kicked off its summer event schedule with a table at Toronto’s Pride festival! Our team of volunteers had a great time chatting with festival attendees about Proportional Representation and how a Citizens’ Assembly is the best path forward for electoral reform.
The reception to our table was fantastic all weekend, with over 400 people signing Fair Vote Canada’s “Declaration of Voters’ Rights” and quite a few even signing up as future volunteers. We also had a visit from Amita Kuttner, interim leader of the federal Green Party!
Thank you to all the volunteers who spent their weekend with us, and especially our new Volunteer Coordinator, Olivia Mirski, who kept us organized and active all weekend!
Looking to get involved at our next event? Volunteer with us by clicking here!
Dennis Pilon Webinar: How to Understand Electoral Reform and Act On It
Are you new to Fair Vote Canada and want to get up to speed on the basics of proportional representation? Watch this webinar with Dennis Pilon, Associate Professor at York University as he dispells some common myths and maps out a path forward for PR.
Make Votes Matter Webinar: Democracy Loves Strong & Stable Government
Ever wonder how Proportional Representation can deliver ‘Strong & Stable Government’? Watch this webinar by Make Votes Matter!
Democratic Reform in the News
Electoral reform has made the headlines after the recent provincial election. Here is a sample of what is being said:
- The Future We Choose: Climate action needs electoral reform — fast
- The Saturday Debate:It is finally time for electoral reform in Ontario?
- Éric Grenier: Ontario’s election done differently
Thousands of people attended the Pride Parade in Victoria, BC this past weekend, including Fair Vote Canada volunteers! Lots of smiles, cheers and fist pumps, as well as a visit from Elizabeth May!