Electoral representation - The Commission de la représentation électorale begins updating the electoral map of Québec

QUEBEC CITY, May 20, 2014 /CNW Telbec/ - The chair of the Commission de la représentation électorale, Jacques Drouin, confirms that the CRE has begun to update the electoral map of Québec. The initiative has been undertaken in accordance with the Election Act, which stipulates that the electoral map must be reviewed when it has been in force for two general elections.

During the next year, the commission will look at the boundaries of each of Québec's electoral divisions, in order to determine whether changes should be made. The evolution of the population since the last update is one of the criteria to be considered. It should be recalled that the 2011 electoral map was established according to the electoral population of 2007.

No later than April 7, 2015, i.e. one year after the last general election, the CRE will table a draft report containing a proposal for a new electoral map with the National Assembly. Subsequently, public consultations will be conducted, and voters, elected representatives and concerned groups can then share their opinion concerning the proposed boundaries with the commission.

"At this point, it would certainly be premature to predict the results of the commission's proceedings as its assessment of the situation has only just begun. Any scenario regarding the fate of any of Québec's electoral divisions is therefore highly hypothetical", said Mr. Drouin.

In addition to its chair, the Commission de la représentation électorale includes two commissioners, Serge Courville and Bruno Jean. The CRE, as a body, is completely independent from the institution of the Chief Electoral Officer, although employees from the latter office collaborate in CRE projects and initiatives.

For further information, please visit the website of the Chief Electoral Officer at http://www.electionsquebec.qc.ca/english/provincial/media/quebec-s-electoral-map.php?n=4.

SOURCE: Directeur général des élections

Stéphanie Isabel, Information Officer, 418-644-3320 or 1-888-870-3320, [email protected]