Press Releases and Media Advisories

Elections Canada: Media: Press Releases and Media Advisories

Important Reminders for Media on Election Day,
Monday, November 27, 2006

OTTAWA, Monday, November 20, 2006 — The Chief Electoral Officer of Canada, Jean-Pierre Kingsley, reviewed today the provisions in the Canada Elections Act affecting the media.

"On November 27, the day of the election, the media must be mindful not to publish election advertising or the results of election opinion surveys that have not already been transmitted to the public. This is part of the Act and applies to all media, including the Internet," stated Mr. Kingsley. "In addition, you should remember that the blackout period for advertising on election day applies to candidates, registered political parties and third parties."

On election day, polls in Repentigny (Quebec) and London North Centre (Ontario) will close at 8:30 p.m. Until polling stations close, there is a ban on disseminating the following information:

This ban applies to all media. Election advertising posted to the public on the Internet before election day need not be withdrawn, but it cannot be amended once the blackout period has begun. The blackout does not apply to the distribution of pamphlets or the posting of messages on signs, posters or banners.

The Canada Elections Act stipulates that only election officers, electors, candidates and candidates’ representatives may be admitted to a polling station on election day. Moreover, barring access to a polling station or otherwise impeding the voting process is prohibited, as is compromising the secrecy of the vote. The media must, therefore, remain outside polling stations and be careful not to impede the free movement of electors. As a courtesy, those wishing to cover activities outside a polling station should contact the returning officer for that electoral district before election day.

By-elections will be held in Repentigny and London North Centre on Monday, November 27, 2006.

Elections Canada is an independent body set up by Parliament.

Information:
Elections Canada Media Relations
1-877-877-9515
or at www.elections.ca