There’s a federal election campaign underway across Canada and election day is September 20th. Campaign signs are beginning to appear on boulevards and front lawns, there are commercials on television and radio, and on September 8th and 9th, the party leaders will get together to debate the issues.
Unlike past federal elections, this one is taking place during a pandemic.
Some of you may be leery about heading out to the polls and voting in person. Perhaps your clients, friends or family are expressing some concerns. While COVID-19 safety protocols will be in place at all polling stations, Elections Canada is also preparing for an increase in mail-in ballots, especially from members of vulnerable populations including seniors, people living in congregate settings or people who have underlying health issues.
If you or someone you know wants to vote by mail, start the process now by applying online or by contacting any Elections Canada office across Canada. The deadline to request a mail-in ballot is Tuesday, September 14th at 6 p.m.
Once Elections Canada has approved an application to vote by mail, they will mail out a voting kit. The voting kit will contain everything needed to return the completed ballot to Elections Canada, including a prepaid envelope. Completed ballots must be returned by election day.
And if someone votes by mail, they can’t change their mind and vote in person at an advance poll or on election day.
For those who prefer to vote in person, information will be arriving soon in the mail with instructions about where to vote.
The choice of who to vote for is up to each individual and we encourage everyone to have their say by completing a ballot. Please choose the safest option for yourself, your family, your friends and our clients as we continue to provide vital services to the residents of Durham Region.
To learn more about voting by mail, including the location of Election Canada offices, please visit https://www.elections.ca/home.aspx and click on Vote by mail.