SASKATOON — CBC's Talk the Vote candidates forum at Saskatoon's Western Development Museum was an ambitious effort, partly because such election forums are easily criticized for certain oversights and insufficiencies.

The Museum's rustic main street storefronts and rocking chairs gave the set more interest and character than the standard television studio podium. Some viewers may have thought that the "Boomtown" sign hanging over the representatives' heads lent an ironic touch, particularly to discussions about budgetary balance and health care funding.

A large problem for those following the debate on television was poor sound quality. The crackly voice broadcast was distracting. Moreover, the three party representatives were wearing rather unattractive, awkward looking microphone headsets. These were probably necessary to facilitate the dual medium broadcast. However, they were not the hi-tech sorts of headsets worn by sports commentators and the camera angles drew attention to their presence.

Despite the best efforts of moderators Costa Maragos and Sheila Coles, only twelve full questions were posed during the hour. Out of these, two involved the privatization of the province's crown corporations, two were on health care and two addressed fiscal policy.

The positions of the questioners were clear enough to merit revision of the forum's title to "Talk with Interest Groups." Few "ordinary citizens" made it to the microphones.

These criticisms reflect the usual limitations that arise with such stylized election "town halls." Yet, this event demonstrated the clear democratic commitment held by all its participants.

First, when the cameras scanned across the audience, they revealed well over one hundred people listening attentively to the party representatives. Of course, some of these people were political staff and some were there representing specific interest and lobby groups.

However, a good number were actually there to hear what the politicians had to say. They gave up a good portion of their Tuesday night, drove across town and sat in uncomfortable temporary seating to gain more insight into their electoral choices. Congratulations to these audience members and to the folks across Saskatchewan who listened to, or watched, the forum. Such citizens clearly take their democratic responsibilities seriously and they are an example to us all.

Second, the party representatives deserve similar commendation. Would you or I have enjoyed taking the place of NDP candidate Pat Atkinson, Saskatchewan Party Candidate Don Morgan or Liberal candidate Ken McDonough? Speaking for myself, I can think of several more enjoyable activities than sitting stiffly on a podium in the company of my political competitors, while being scrutinized carefully by voters. While it is true that those who seek to hold power on our behalf must pass such tests, these three candidates bore such scrutiny admirably and stoically. Thanks to these representatives who, by standing as candidates, give citizens the gift of political choice.

Finally, CBC deserves recognition for hosting the "Talk the Vote" forum and ensuring maximum voter access to the broadcasts. As someone who teaches university students about politics and public policy, I fully admit that I am guilty of taking the media for granted.

It is easy to dismiss such forums as self-serving exercises aimed at capturing more of the audience market share. However, the ordinary people sitting quietly Tuesday night in the middle of a pseudo main street were seeking political information.

Without this forum, and other similar events such as the leaders' debate to support the daily efforts of journalists, the process of making political choices would be very difficult. So, thanks to the CBC moderators, technicians, camera people and producers. Maybe the voters, the parties and the pundits do not mention it often, but we appreciate your contribution to our free and functional election process.

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