Media releases

• MPs should consider online voting during COVID-19 pandemic, says Brock researcher

  Friday, April 03, 2020 | Posted by Brock University

  MEDIA RELEASE: 3 April 2020 – R0060

  Online voting is entirely possible in parliamentary settings, according to Brock University Assistant Professor of Political Science Nicole Goodman.

  Goodman and her research partner, Aleksander Essex, Associate Professor of Software Engineering at Western University, recently wrote in Policy Options that “even institutions steeped in tradition must consider technology” and asserted that “a secure, remote voting solution for online voting is viable.”

  On April 1, The Hill Times reported that while some members of parliament (MPs) believe that the country is lagging in this area and due for reform, as evidenced by the difficulties created by the current COVID-19 crisis, other MPs are reluctant to entertain the possibility of changing procedures and would not consider debating the topic unless the suspension of parliament is required to last into the fall.

  Goodman and Essex contend that while the European Union’s recent decision to move to email voting is not without its problems, a more thoughtful and permanent solution is available to members of Canadian parliament for three reasons:

  • Parliamentary votes are part of the public record, and therefore easily verified.
  • The cybersecurity infrastructure needed to protect electronic information is readily available.
  • With specific training, MPs can ensure that their own votes are correctly recorded.

  “The COVID-19 pandemic has placed limits on legislative democracy to ensure the safety of MPs, but technology can provide a solution that will allow MPs to continue to vote on bills and also promote enhanced representation of members in votes,” says Goodman.

  While online voting doesn’t need to happen all the time, and it doesn’t replace parliamentary debate, she says “it is a solution to the current situation wherein MPs can continue to social distance at their homes while passing necessary emergency measures.”

  Findings from Goodman’s research have been presented in testimony to the Standing Committee on the Legislative Assembly (Ontario) and the Special Committee on Electoral Reform. She is a member of the advisory board of the International Institute for Democracy and Electoral Assistance (International IDEA) and the director of the Centre for e-Democracy.

  Brock University Assistant Professor of Political Science Nicole Goodman is available for interviews through email

  For more information or for assistance arranging interviews:

  * Dan Dakin, Manager Communications and Media Relations, Brock University ddakin@brocku.ca, or 905-347-1970

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  Categories: Media releases

• Quality time, structure important for families during COVID-19 pandemic, says Brock researcher

  Thursday, April 02, 2020 | Posted by Brock University

  MEDIA RELEASE: 2 April 2020 – R0059

  One of the many challenges facing families due to the COVID-19 pandemic is finding new ways of living together while letting go of old expectations.

  Brock University Associate Professor of Sport Management Dawn Trussell says one solution is to set a structured schedule and rethink recreation and sport.

  “There is an important opportunity to strengthen familial bonds and create a sense of unity,” says Trussell. “Research shows us that families need a sense of familiarity and stability in their lives; these experiences can foster feelings of family closeness.”

  Trussell recommends planning a consistent hour or two every day that all family members can look forward to. She suggests the time being low-cost, home-based leisure activities that align with individual interests and require little planning, such as board games, a game of soccer in the yard or reading together.

  Earlier this week, the Ontario government announced it was extending the provincial state of emergency for at least another two weeks. The new order closed all outdoor recreational amenities and public facilities, such as sports fields, playgrounds and parks. Additionally, schools across the province are now closed until at least May 4, though that could be extended further.

  “For parents in particular, creating a consistent strategy is essential as children look for structure,” says Trussell. “Families are a primary source of companionship and gratification. Now more than ever, families are the primary pillar of support as people are instructed to ‘go home and stay home.’”

  Amid growing pandemic fears and restrictions, Trussell affirms when families spend quality ‘play’ time together, it can build and strengthen the family unit which, in turn, may alleviate stress.

  She also notes that too much time together isn’t necessarily ideal, especially for parents working from home full-time or essential workers who still must leave their house for work.

  She urges parents to practise self-care, as research suggests that parents, especially mothers, often sacrifice their own leisure in support of their children.

  “Rather than thinking you have to be together all the time, recognize that short, scheduled moments in a day are more meaningful for everyone,” says Trussell, a family of two elementary school-aged daughters. “Prioritizing and scheduling even a short amount of time for yourself will help you navigate this difficult time and contribute to the collective well-being of the family unit.”

  For families on the COVID-19 frontline or who are just seeing their children through a video camera, Trussell emphasizes this consistent time of scheduled connection may provide an important sense of togetherness, even if online.

  “The COVID-19 restrictions can still provide us with the opportunity to reconnect and strengthen our relationships and communication among family members through emails, letters, phone calls and social media,” she says.

  Brock University Associate Professor of Sport Management Dawn Trussell is available for phone and video interview requests.

  For more information or for assistance arranging interviews:

  * Dan Dakin, Manager Communications and Media Relations, Brock University ddakin@brocku.ca, or 905-347-1970

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  Categories: Media releases