Runciman urges election of senators
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So, what is this? Since 1995, the Tories were elected into office, to
change and reform the current system, they didn't, they got turfed
and now they are the Opposition in 2003. Today, they talk like
Reformers but still are Tories, what gives? Talk is talk, but walk is
walk, actions speak louder than words - just elect John Tory for
leader and get it over with - some people don't like their emotions
toyed with, eh!
Runciman urges election of senators
By RICHARD MACKIE
Friday, April 30, 2004 - Page A7
Ontario voters should be able to choose the members of the Senate who
represent them and not have senators imposed on them by a prime
minister rewarding political friends, says Bob Runciman, a veteran
Progressive Conservative MPP with strong ties to the federal
Conservative Party.
His call brings renewed attention to a policy of the federal party
that Conservatives hope will bring them new supporters in Western
Canada and in Ontario, where provincial Liberals acknowledge there is
an unhappiness with existing political institutions.
Mr. Runciman yesterday proposed provincial legislation that would see
candidates for appointment to the Senate elected in the province
under votes organized by Elections Ontario.
Because the legislation is a private member's bill introduced by an
Opposition MPP the proposed legislation is expected to put pressure
on the provincial Liberal government to deal with Senate reform. It
is preparing its own package of so-called democratic renewal changes
to existing political institutions.
The bill is scheduled to be voted on for second reading in June,
possibly on the eve of a June 14 election that would see the federal
Conservatives mounting serious challenges to Liberal candidates in at
least two dozen seats.
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