S-201 (current session)
An Act to amend the Canada Elections Act and the Regulation Adapting the Canada Elections Act for the Purposes of a Referendum (voting age)
S-209 (43rd Parliament, 2nd session)
An Act to amend the Canada Elections Act and the Regulation Adapting the Canada Elections Act for the Purposes of a Referendum (voting age)
S-219 (43rd Parliament, 1st session)
An Act to amend the Canada Elections Act and the Regulation Adapting the Canada Elections Act for the Purposes of a Referendum (voting age)
This is a computer-generated summary of the speeches below.
Usually it’s accurate, but every now and then it’ll contain inaccuracies or total fabrications.
Bill C-210 aims to amend the Canada Elections Act to lower the federal voting age from 18 to 16. Proponents argue this will increase voter turnout, engage young people in democracy earlier, and give youth a voice on issues that impact their future. Opponents raise concerns about maturity, the responsibilities of citizenship, and whether lowering the voting age will truly improve voter turnout.
NDP
Supports lowering voting age: The NDP strongly supports Bill C-210 to lower the voting age to 16, believing in the power of young people and their right to participate in democracy. They want to strengthen democracy by including the voices of 16- and 17-year-old Canadians, who are mature enough to vote.
Democracy is strengthened: The NDP sees lowering the voting age as a way to combat disillusionment and strengthen democracy. This is based on research, and the examples of countries and organizations that have already lowered their voting age.
Young people's futures at stake: The NDP argues that young people are most affected by issues like housing affordability, student debt, and climate change, so they deserve a say in decisions about these issues. They argue that not giving young people the vote, when they are already working, paying taxes, and taking on other responsibilities, is unjust.
Increase voter turnout: Lowering the voting age to 16 can combat low voter turnout, since 16-year-olds are more likely to be living at home and connected to their communities, making them more likely to vote. The NDP is interested in strengthening democracy, and notes this goal is shared by other parties.
Conservative
Opposed to lowering age: The Conservative Party does not support lowering the federal voting age from 18 to 16. While they defend the rights of young Canadians, they believe a limit needs to be set, and 18 is the appropriate age.
Turnout concerns: Lowering the voting age may not improve voter turnout and could potentially decrease it if the new voters do not participate at a high rate. Additionally, they cite studies that indicate lowering the voting age does not increase voter turnout.
Other responsibilities: The age of 16 and 17 year olds is restricted for things like military service, alcohol and cannabis purchase, and full driving rights, suggesting that full citizenship rights and responsibilities are tied to coming of age.
Need for caution: There is a need for caution and careful consideration before rushing into a decision to lower the voting age. There are good areas that can be debated, but things need to be more finely considered here.
Bloc
Open to lowering the voting age: The Bloc Québécois is open to the idea of lowering the voting age to 16, acknowledging potential benefits such as increased civic participation and the development of good voting habits.
Need for respect: Before considering lowering the voting age, the government should prioritize respecting the intelligence of current voters by providing substantive answers to questions and respecting the outcome of elections.
Questions about maturity: The Bloc recognizes concerns about the maturity and knowledge of 16-year-olds, suggesting the need for further study and consideration of how lowering the voting age could impact education and political engagement.
Potential benefits: Lowering the voting age could bring new perspectives and a diversity of ideological views into the democratic process, particularly on issues like climate change that directly affect young people.
Liberal
Supports lowering voting age: The Liberal speakers voiced support for Bill S-210, which aims to lower the voting age to 16, viewing it as an important step to engage youth in the democratic process. They feel the current voting age is a disconnect from youth who are already learning about civics, and that lowering it would encourage more participation in voting.
Youth engagement is key: There are multiple mechanisms for youth to get involved in politics currently and many Liberal members want to challenge youth to develop youth councils and get involved in politics. Speakers emphasized the importance of engaging young people in politics early on, citing their active role in movements like climate strikes and contributions to political parties. They cited youth councils as a good mechanism for youth involvement.
Voting age has evolved: Members note that the right to vote has evolved over time in Canada, citing the original Confederation rules compared to current rules, and thus are open to more change. Lowering the voting age should be considered in light of declining voter turnout and the need to engage people early to ensure lifelong participation.
Need more information: While generally supportive of the bill, one speaker noted the value of consultation and further study of the question. He would like to see Elections Canada or similar agencies examine the idea.
Pursuant to order made on Thursday, June 23, 2022, the House will now proceed to the taking of the deferred recorded division on the motion at second reading stage of Bill C-210, under Private Members' Business.
Before the Clerk announced the results of the vote:
