2016-02-29
29/02/2016
The referendum asking voters to approve an increase in the term of the state government from three years to four years is being held on the 19th March to coincide with local Council elections.
Greens spokesperson Andrew Bartlett said the party had opposed the plan to give politicians more time between elections ever since it was first floated last year.
"The Queensland Government is disingenuously linking the positive reform of fixed terms with an extension in the time politicians get in power."
"The Greens support a fixed date for elections, but state Parliament can bring that in at any time. The only reason the referendum is being held is to enable governments to face fewer elections and stay in power longer"
"Queensland is the only State without an Upper House, and we also have a voting system which leaves many voters unrepresented in Parliament.
Despite the fact that 21% of Queenslanders did not give the LNP or the ALP their first preference in the last State Election the two parties were handed 97% of the Parliamentary seats."
"Genuine democratic reform in Queensland would involve providing a proportional representation system.
"Now the two parties want to give themselves another year in Parliament and we say NO"
"Elections are voters' only protection against extreme actions by government. Fewer elections equals less accountability and the Greens will continue to oppose this.
For more information contact Andrew Bartlett on 0418743789.