The Preserving Provincial Representation in the House of Commons Act aims to ensure that no province has fewer representatives in the House of Commons than it did during the 43rd Parliament, regardless of demographic changes determined by the upcoming census. This change seeks to protect the representation of less populous provinces.
This act will affect all Canadians, particularly residents of provinces that are experiencing population declines or slower growth. Citizens in these provinces may feel reassured about their representation in the federal government. On the flip side, residents of more populous provinces might feel their voices could be diluted if the balance of representation does not adjust according to population shifts.
The amendment could lead to increased government spending due to larger operational costs associated with maintaining more members in the House of Commons. This includes higher expenses for salaries, benefits, and administrative support for a potentially larger number of MPs. Funding that could have gone toward social services, education, or healthcare might be redirected to support these increased costs, impacting citizens' access to public services.
Supporters of the act argue that it is essential for fairness and stability within Canada’s political system. By maintaining the same level of representation for all provinces, especially those that are less populated, they believe it prevents larger provinces from overshadowing them and ensures that every region has a voice in federal decision-making. They contend that this will help maintain the integrity of the federation and foster a sense of unity across diverse provinces.
Critics of the act express concerns over its financial implications and potential to create inequities in representation. They argue that the requirement to keep member counts constant despite demographic changes does not reflect the actual population and could undermine the democratic principle of equal representation. Additionally, they contend that it may discourage meaningful electoral reforms that could better align representation with the current population distributions, ultimately leaving residents less represented and engaged in the democratic process.
That, in relation to Bill C-14, An Act to amend the Constitution Act, 1867 (electoral representation), not more than one further sitting day shall be allotted to the consideration at second reading stage of the bill; and That, 15 minutes before the expiry of the time provided for Government Orders on the day allotted to the consideration at second reading stage of the said bill, any proceedings before the House shall be interrupted, if required for the purpose of this order, and, in turn, every question necessary for the disposal of the said stage of the bill shall be put forthwith and successively, without further debate or amendment.