The ballots have been counted (well, most of them), and while the exact details have yet to be determined, the outcome of the election is clear.
The results of our Sept. 20 federal election will not please everyone. There are those who would have preferred a different party forming the government. Some would have liked to see different numbers of seats for the various parties. And others would have preferred an outcome where all 338 seats went to one party, allowing decisions to go ahead with little or no debate.
Whatever anyone thinks of the outcome of this election, the voters have spoken and the results will set the tone for the House of Commons in the months and years ahead.
Canada’s electoral system allows citizens of this country a voice in choosing federal, provincial and municipal governments. It is possible to choose from several parties and candidates on the ballot. In some parts of the world, such a choice does not exist.
The results of the Sept. 20 election show our differences, regionally and within individual ridings. Not all of us voted the same way. Not all agree on the direction the country should take. This is how democracy works in this country.
Now that the election is over, the democratic process continues.
Those who were elected will need to work together in order to make the wisest decisions for the country. At times, compromise will be required.
We need to respect this part of the process, no matter what our personal political leanings. The effectiveness of a government is based on how effectively the representatives can work together for the good of the country. This is far more important than shouting slogans and partisan platitudes.
Our federal government exists to serve all Canadians, no matter how they voted or if they voted.
The decision has been made and the election is over. The voters have spoken.
— Black Press
