The Commission on Prince Edward Island’s Electoral Future today released the results of a poll conducted in two waves during the weeks of September 5 and October 24. In each wave, a representative sample of 400 Islanders aged 18 and over were interviewed by telephone. Statistical reliability is estimated at plus or minus 4.86%.
In late October, 89.1% of Islanders said they were aware that a vote had been scheduled on whether we should switch to a new electoral system (compared to 63.9% in early September).
Those who claimed to know a fair amount or a great deal about the proposed Mixed Member Proportional System rose from 21.6% in September to 37.2% in October. When asked how interested they were in whether or not the current way we elect our provincial politicians should be changed, the number who said they were somewhat or very interested declined somewhat from September (64.6%) to October (56.5%).
Both waves of polling indicated a strong intent to vote among Islanders. In October, those reporting they were very or somewhat likely to vote totaled 85.4% .
“We are pleased that almost 90% of Islanders know about the plebiscite,” said Commission Chair, Leonard Russell, “and the high intent to vote is gratifying, though not all that surprising. After all, here in PEI, we habitually see the highest voter turnout of any jurisdiction. Islanders take the electoral process seriously.”
“Public education is a key part of the Commission’s mandate and it’s good to see the positive trend in recent weeks. We are working hard to raise the level of understanding relative to the two systems being considered. We expect
this positive trend to continue, so that on November 28, a majority of Islanders will feel equipped to vote in an informed manner.”
The Commission has already held 12 public meetings across the province, as well as 12 other meetings with interested groups. At least 7 more meetings are scheduled. Newspaper and radio advertising will also continue regularly through the remaining four weeks leading up to the November 28 Plebiscite Day.