FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: (August 6, 2014)

Amalgamation Yes calls on Province and municipal councils to respond to Angus Reid poll

Amalgamation Yes is calling on the mayors and councils of the 13 CRD municipalities, as well as the Province, to address the findings of the Angus Reid Global poll released on July 29th.

The opinion poll revealed, among other findings, that:

• 84% of respondents are in favour of amalgamation,
• 89% of respondents support a non-binding referendum on amalgamation, and
• 80% support having an independent, comprehensive cost-benefit study and analysis of amalgamation

“A week has passed and we've yet to hear any response to this overwhelming endorsement for a governance review of the municipalities in the CRD”, said John Vickers, Vice-Chair of Amalgamation Yes. “Residents have sent a strong message to both levels of government and they expect a response and action from those they elect. It's simply not acceptable to ignore an overwhelming endorsement such as this. A non-binding referendum to study amalgamation shouldn't strike fear into the hearts of local councils; rather it will be a useful tool to help improve local government services.”

“Voters have their eye on the ball on this issue”, continued Vickers. “With municipal elections looming, now is the time for councils to step up and listen to the views of their constituents. And we expect the Province to take at least some interest in this issue, as the dysfunctions affecting major regional service issues are having a disruptive affect on the Greater Victoria community.”

The complete Angus Reid Global poll can be read at http://www.amalgamationyes.ca/angus-reid-global-poll-public-opinions-on-municipal-and-regional-issues-in-the-capital-region.html


For further information: 

Contact Information:
Susan Jones: Amalgamation Yes Chair, 250-217-5340
John Vickers: Amalgamation Yes Spokesperson, 250-661-5350
www.amalgamationyes.ca