Comment 19 – comments and feedback
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Hon. Doug Lewis, P.C., K.C., L.S.M., F.C., P.A., FCA
Re: Proposed Changes to the Riding of Simcoe North
As the former Member of Parliament for Simcoe North from 1979 to 1993. I wish to comment on the proposed changes to the riding of Simcoe North.
Name Change
First, let's deal with the name. Simcoe North is one of the eight ridings originally named in the British North America Act that has not changed name since Confederation. That's an important piece of history. The Commission proposes to change it to "Penetanguishene Couchiching."
The riding's historical name identifies it as part of the northern portion of Simcoe County. It also identifies with Lake Simcoe which abuts the townships of Oro-Medonte and Ramara and the City of Orilla.
The Commission seeks to change the name to instead identify with Penetanguishene, the smallest municipality in Simcoe North at the north-west end of the ridings and Lake Couchiching, which is smaller than Lake Simcoe and Georgian Bay.
"Penetanguishene Couchiching" is more difficult to pronounce and spell than "Simcoe North." In fact, when I was the MP, I noticed that often people in that area referred to the town of "Penetang."
Boundaries Change
Now let's turn to the boundaries change. The Commission is proposing that the part of Simcoe North that consists of all parts of Oro-Medonte north-east of the 9th line be transferred to the riding of Barrier, Springwater, Oro-Medonte (BOSM).
Residents of that part of the riding relate to Orillia rather than Barrie. That is where they shop, attend school, get medical attention and enjoy the other amenities of life.
As well, Barrie, Springwater, Oro-Medonte is expecting substantial growth in the Midhurst area. Adding those parts of Oro-Medonte north-east of the 9th line will grow the numbers of BOSM and make representing that riding more of a challenge than the current Member of Parliament.
Change for change's sake never makes sense because it is not based on reason. There are no reasonable reasons for the suggested changes in name or riding boundaries.
In my experience as a former MP, myself and my staff found that residents don't necessarily understand the responsibilities of the MP and the MPP for the riding, nor do they understand what each office can help them with. A new riding name and office will only contribute to this confusion.
Yours Truly,
Hon Doug Lewis