It could be a few weeks yet before we hear from the Riding Redistribution Commission regarding proposed changes to the federal electoral boundaries in this region.
Algoma-Manitoulin-Kapuskasing MP Carol Hughes says she is anticipating the report to be tabled by February 8th at the earliest.
“If they actually heard the testimony that was provided and whether they will make those necessary adjustments to preserve the riding of Algoma-Manitoulin-Kapuskasing or to preserve at least all of the current electoral districts that we kind of have.”
Under the current proposal, Hughes riding could be split up, moving Hearst, Kapuskasing and Smooth Rock Falls with the Cochrane-Timmins-Temiskaming riding that is currently held by Charlie Angus. Hughes says there’s overwhelming support to preserve the number of northern MPs and even make some adjustments to the riding if her seat is kept.
Hughes who could lose her seat under the new proposal, says once the report is tabled then it’s off to the procedure committee.
“For them to weigh in and for like MPs to have a say based on what is presented and see if there’s some changes that we can try to push for.”
Hughes hoped the commission heard all of the presentations calling for a status quo on the number of seats in the north and keeping her riding.
If a federal election is called once the report is passed, then the new changes wouldn’t take effect until after a seven month deadline has passed.