This study interests me greatly.
Concerning whether or not we should hold a referendum, you said that in your opinion this was not a legal issue but a political one. We agree entirely with you on that. From a constitutional perspective, we are not obliged to hold a referendum. However, we feel as you do that this is a political issue. As you said in English earlier: “It's up to the MPs to decide”. It is up to the MPs to decide. It is up to the MPs to decide whether there will be a referendum or not.
Basically, we the members of the committee feel that as MPs, we are in a conflict of interest when we discuss this matter. Of course we have a rather partisan view, and that is normal since we live in this environment. Members also think, as did previous Canadians, that the population should have the last word. New Zealand, which has the same British tradition as we do, held three referendums in 11 years before implementing a change.
Without quoting the Bible this time, I will say that I agree with the following words: “Precedent makes holding a referendum necessary in Canada. Changing the voting system would require popular support”. Who said that? You may be surprised. It was the Honourable Stéphane Dion, Minister of Foreign Affairs, the intellectual backbone of the current government and a very experienced minister.
Mr. Montigny, do you share the point of view of this gentleman, who was I believe one of your university professors?