Sudbury MP Diane Marleau and MPP Rick Bartolucci are angry at recent actions by the Harper government.
They have joined forces to fight the federal government's proposed legislation, Bill C-22, that will shortchange Ontario by 11 seats in the House of Commons by 2011.
The federal government is introducing new legislation, Bill C-22, to change the formula for readjusting seats among the provinces in the House of Commons.
If passed, the legislation would be implemented after the 2011 Census has been completed and detailed population statistics generated. Both Alberta and BC would get one MP for every 100,000 new residents but Ontario would only get a new MP for every 200,000 increase in population.
“We have to fight for what is fair. We are launching a poster card campaign to raise awareness about this issue that goes to the heart of our democracy and to protest the bill, C-22 that the Harper government is trying to get through parliament,” said Marleau.
Both politicians want Bill C-22 to be amended to reverse the discrimination in seats or be scrapped.
“Sudburians want to be heard,” said Marleau. “By signing this postcard, we are calling on all Sudburians to send a clear message to Prime Minister Stephen Harper to give Sudbury and Ontario residents equal representation in the House of Commons,” she said.
“If Bill-22 passes we will get less representation, fewer seats. Our democracy is based on representation by population, one person one vote, equality under the law and effective representation. This legislation violates these core tenants,” said Bartolucci.
Greater Sudbury residents are encouraged to obtain the postcards by contacting the offices of Diane Marleau, 36 Elgin St., 673-7107 or Rick Bartolucci, 100 Elm St., 675-1914.
“You need no postage to mail it. It's free courtesy of the government,” said Marleau.
