All Candidates Forum Question: Government by referendum?

The democratic system under which we live places great trust and confidence in our elected officials to make good choices and wise decisions on our behalf. It is their willing exercise of their duties that relieves us of the necessity to study every issue. Occasionally an issue is deemed so controversial or a proposed borrowing needs the assent of the electors that it requires referendum. I regard the legislation governing referendum as a safeguard for the public ensuring they are consulted on truly major issues.

If however the public were asked to vote on every issue the principles of representative democracy would be negated. I am not saying the public input should not be sought, indeed it would be folly on the part of any government not to seek public opinion but government by opinion poll would soon cease to follow an efficient course.

I have more one thing to say about the referendum process. I believe the elected officials who call such a vote should be active in its promotion or its detraction; no fence sitting and no shrugging the shoulders saying “the public will decide”. Those who are the best informed should be the loudest and most articulate in the promotion or opposition to a referendum question. The public after a careful listening to the debate can then decide the question.

I ask you to make Shawn Lee your first choice for Vernon City Council.

Cheers, Shawn Lee

Candidate for Vernon City Council