Green party leader, Elizabeth May, has not been invited to the election debate. The broadcast consortium that hosts the debate decided May is not welcomed. Marco Dube, consortium spokesperson, said the five broadcasters wanted to invite only the four parties in the House of Commons. With the support of a million Canadians across the country, the Green party has yet to elect an MP.
During the 2008 election May was allowed a spot at the debate table after a fierce public backlash. Only Stephane Dion, welcomed Green party’s participation in the debate. At the time the, Blair Wilson, was the only Green MP in the House. May’s strong performance during the debate raised the party’s profile. It also got them 6.8% of the vote, the party’s best ever. This year, none of the three House party leaders have raised their voice in support. They say it is up to the broadcasters. The Conservatives have remained silent.
Camille Labchuk, the party spokesperson, said once again they will fight for May’s inclusion.