Quebec Liberals speak out against proposed electoral maps changes
New map would scrap 2 ridings where Liberals have traditionally found support
Some Quebec Liberal MNAs are voicing their opposition to proposed changes to the province's electoral map.
The proposed changes by the Electoral Representation Committee include eliminating one riding in Montreal by merging Mont Royal and Outremont, and expanding the boundaries in other ridings.
The independent committee makes changes to the province's riding boundaries after every second election. It looks at increases and decreases in population and then makes changes in order that voters are fairly represented in the National Assembly.
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Changing anglophone and Jewish riding
For example, the boundary of Montreal-area riding D'Arcy-McGee would be expanded to include parts of Mont Royal and Outremont.
David Birnbaum, the riding's MNA, said the proposed change would alter the historical anglophone and Jewish make-up of his riding.
"The changes being proposed would have a pronounced and negative impact on the riding of D'Arcy-McGee," Birnbaum said in a statement.
The report also suggests scrapping one riding in Mauricie and adding two to the Laurentides-Lanaudière region.
A final report is due next year.