Opinion
How to democratize political finance systems across Canada
By Duff Conacher Apr. 11, 2016
These changes won’t stop bribery but they will discourage it by making it more clearly illegal, and by increasing the chances of getting caught. Until all Canadian jurisdictions—federal, provincial, territorial and municipal—make these changes, big money will continue to dominate, and corrupt, our politics.
Democratic Institutions Minister Maryam Monsef, pictured in this file photo, is responsible for any changes to Canada's campaign financing laws as the minister responsible for the Elections Canada and the Elections Act. The Hill Times photograph by Jake Wright
OTTAWA—Some politicians and commentators have recently made proposals that won’t stop big money from corrupting Canadian politics. The most questionable claim is that the federal law is the best model. While the federal government banned corporate and union donations in 2007, its $3,050 annual donation limit for individuals ($1,525 to a party and the same amount to its riding associations) is much more than an average Canadian can afford. As a result, wealthy people can still use money
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