Beside the clarity of the message, the number of respondents is remarkable and makes our surveys as reliable as any of those you read about in the media. This one was rated as accurate within 2.2%, 19 times out of 20.

Also remarkable is the speed of the response: the poll went out on a Friday; by Monday there were 1,700 responses.

I make a point of telling politicians that CARP can poll a large subset of its members and get a reliable snapshot of their opinion across the country in a few days. Their eyes widen – not only at the prospect of getting our members’ opinion quickly but also at the realization that any of their actions that infuriate our members would also get a rapid response.

That is the power of the electronic media today – immediacy and reach. This is a tool that will become increasing vital to CARP’s advocacy and effectiveness. With the recent update of the email list, CARP ActionOnline will now reach 84,000 members, nearly half of the households receiving ZOOMER magazine but only a quarter of all CARP members. To make sure to have your say in these polls and to get timely updates on current advocacy issues, please visit www.carp.ca and subscribe to CARP ActionOnline. Besides, it’s free.