(March 10, 2021) – Should alert levels lower and COVID-19 cases continue to remain low, and subject to the advice and direction of the Chief Medical Officer of Health, PC Leader Ches Crosbie is calling for a resumption of safe in-person voting in order to accommodate the thousands who have been shut out and disenfranchised by the confusing, cumbersome, and inconsistent election process.

Crosbie emphasizes that this request is subject to the approval of Dr. Fitzgerald’s team — health and safety remains paramount.

“Andrew Furey’s risky, unnecessary snap election is on track to produce the lowest voter turnout in our province’s history,” said Crosbie.

“Considering the pandemic, the Greene Report, the state of our energy industry, and ongoing challenges in our healthcare system, it’s clear this is the most important provincial election our province has seen in decades. With the stakes as high as they are, every eligible vote deserves the chance to have their say.”

Crosbie says a resumption of safe in-person voting would help restore public trust in the electoral process. An Angus Reid poll released on Wednesday suggests 36 per cent of the population question the legitimacy of the ongoing provincial election.

Crosbie says other provinces have proven in-person voting is possible during the pandemic. He adds that given the prolonged time needed to count special ballots, in-person voting could take place within that timeframe and not further delay the outcome of the election.

“Other provinces, such as British Columbia, have managed to safely hold in-person voting by finding creative ways to allow voters to exercise their franchise – including telephone-assisted voting, extended voting hours and more voting days,” the PC leader says.

“Every safe and reasonable effort should be made to accommodate those who wish to have their voice heard.”

Contacts:

David Maher

Director of Communications

(p) (709) 769-2216

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