moved for leave to introduce Bill C-513, an act to amend the Canada Elections Act (candidate selection).
Mr. Speaker, in response to the hundreds of communications from Surrey North constituents and many others across Canada, I introduce on their behalf an amendment to the Canada Elections Act.
Canadians are growing increasingly concerned about the mass signing up of thousands of members of special interest or ethnic groups in the riding associations, simply to secure nominations. Many instant members have little or no idea of in what they are participating. Many colleagues here have expressed the same concern from all sides of the House.
Canadians should participate, but this practice of instant membership risks distorting the electoral process. In many cases, instant members, who are ineligible to vote, whether for reason of age or citizenship, effectively choose election candidates. This bill aims to address those concerns.
Despite years of warning signs, political parties have shown no appetite to police themselves in this regard. Therefore, I believe it is time for Parliament to act.
(Motions deemed adopted, bill read the first time and printed)