IF

IF

BY

JAMES BREDIN AUG 9^TH, 2012

If we had binding referendums like the Swiss have had for years,

Could we maybe interrupt some useless political careers?

Or maybe proportional representation or a plebiscite,

Unfortunately Ottawa aristocrats don’t have this appetite.

If we could eventually elect senators or judges?

Could we show that the system doesn’t run on hidden grudges?

If we were finally allowed death with dignity?

Could we wish them well as we die without pain or indignity?

If they finally brought down mandatory voting for us,

Or a twenty dollar fine at tax time more or less,

If constituents had recall allowed of their own politician,

Am I getting ahead of myself or is this just superstition?

AUG 9^TH, 2012