Proportional representation vs the status quo

Proportional Representation (PR) is a hot topic in Canada at the moment with three provinces considering a change to this system, either through a referendum or by legislation.  One might have thought that given the enormity of our Muskrat Falls debacle, there would be a push for similar electoral reform in our province.

Not so!  At least, that's our conclusion after spending more than a year trying to build momentum for a referendum on PR here in Newfoundland and Labrador.  We did that largely in conjunction with Democracy Alert, another  local social justice group.  They've written about the whole experience on their blog.  Check it out.  It's an  interesting story, one that shows how difficult it can be to create energy and solidarity among groups even when the timing seems right.