FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Today, at 5:30pm, the first debate on the Reform Act, 2014 will take place in the House of Commons. Since its introduction, there has been significant interest and substantial support for this bill. I would like to take this opportunity to thank my colleagues and Canadians across the country for their continued support and encouragement.
Numerous studies and reports over the last several decades have documented the increasing centralization of power in the party leaders and in the executive branch of government, to the detriment of the people’s elected legislature. The consistent downward trend in voter turnout and engagement makes it clear that there is a growing disconnect between Canadians and their elected Parliament. The reforms proposed in the Reform Act will reconnect Canadians to their Parliament by strengthening the role of their local elected member and reinforcing the accountability of party leaders to their caucuses, giving members the tools that they need to better represent their constituents.
Today’s first hour of debate will be followed by a second hour of debate in September. The first vote on the bill, which will take place after that second hour of debate, will determine whether the bill is sent to committee for further study and amendment. I encourage you to follow the debates and to express your views on this bill. For more information on the Reform Act, please visit www.michaelchong.ca. Should you wish to view the 1st hour of debate, you can watch it online at www.cpac.ca/en/.