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Boundary Delimitation
BD001
Delimitation of constituencies
Question: Are constituencies delimited for election purposes?
Answer:
a . Yes
Comments: The number and boundaries of electoral districts are periodically adjusted to reflect changes in population.In Quebec, New Brunswick and Nunavut the electoral quota is based on the total number of electors, rather than on the population. Elections Canada completed the redistribution of the boundaries of electoral districts in 2023 in order to guarantee proportionate representation of voters.
Source: The Compendium of Election Administration in Canada, Elections Canada(2014)
http://www.elections.ca/res/loi/com/compoverview2014sep_e.pdf
Electoral Boundaries Readjustment Act (1985)
http://laws-lois.justice.gc.ca/PDF/E-3.pdf
http://www.elections.ca/content.aspx?section=res&dir=cir/red&document=index&lang=e
Verified: 2025/03/28
BD002
Question: The authority responsible for final approval of the constituency boundaries is:
Answer(s):
b . The Boundaries Commission
Comments: On the release of the decennial Census data, the Electoral Boundaries Readjustment Act establishes an independent Federal Electoral Boundaries Commission in each of the ten Canadian provinces (each of the three territories is made up of one constituency). The commissions have the mandate to propose changes to electoral district boundaries based on population changes. They must hold public hearings and consult with Parliament before they take their final decisions. They are dissolved once redistribution is over.
Source: Elections Canada
Verified: 2010/06/15
BD003
Criteria for drawing boundaries
Question: On what criteria are the boundaries drawn?
Answer(s):
a . "Equality" of population b . Respecting natural barriers e . Geographic size of district f . Communities of interest/cultural concerns
Comments: The division of the province into electoral districts shall proceed on the basis that the population of each electoral district in the province as a result thereof shall, as close as reasonably possible, correspond to the electoral quota for the province. In determining reasonable electoral boundaries the Commissions shall consider the size of the population (plus or minus 25%) along with the community of interest, the community of identity and historical patterns of an electoral district. Districts in sparsely populated, rural or northern regions of the province must remain of a manageable geographic size. Equality of population is a primary criterion, but there is no clear-cut prioritization of the other criteria. Court decisions have ensured that community of interest must be taken into account.
Source: The Compendium of Election Administration in Canada, Elections Canada (2014)
http://www.elections.ca/res/loi/com/compoverview2014sep_e.pdf
Verified: 2025/03/28
BD004
Question: If population is a criterion, which population figure is used?
Answer:
a . Total population
Comments: Electoral district boundaries are readjusted once every 10 years upon the results of the decennial census of the total population. In Quebec, New Brunswick and Nunavut, unlike other jurisdictions, the electoral quota is based on the total number of electors, rather than on the population
Source: Elections Canada
The Compendium of Election Administration in Canada, Elections Canada (2009)
Verified: 2010/06/15
BD005
Body responsible for drawing boundaries
Question: The body responsible for drawing the boundaries is:
Answer(s):
c . Executive d . Boundary Commission
Comments: An independent electoral boundaries commission is established to determine electoral boundaries in all jurisdictions, except Ontario. Federally, a separate boundaries commission is established for each province.
For each decennial census, the Governor in Council shall establish by proclamation,published in the Canada Gazette, an electoral boundaries commission for each province.
Source: The Compendium of Election Administration in Canada, Elections Canada (2014)
http://www.elections.ca/res/loi/com/compoverview2014sep_e.pdf
Electoral Boundaries Readjustment Act (1984)
http://laws-lois.justice.gc.ca/PDF/E-3.pdf
Verified: 2025/03/28
BD006
Question: What statistical or other reasons trigger the redrawing of electoral constituency boundaries?
Answer(s):
j . National census k . Boundaries redrawn every____period of years
Comments: Federal electoral boundaries are adjusted after each decennial census to reflect changes in population, this process is called redistrubution.In Newfoundland and Labrador, Nova Scotia, Manitoba, Saskatchewan and Nunavut redistribution also takes place every 10 years. In Prince Edward Island, electoral boundaries are reviewed after every third general election. In Quebec, Alberta, British Columbia, Yukon and the Northwest Territories, they are reviewed after every second general election. In New Brunswick, redistribution proceeds only after an Order in Council. In Ontario, according to the Representation Act, 1996, the electoral districts are identical to those established for federal elections, and there is no provincial redistribution. Under the Representation Act, 2005, this process of redistribution will not apply to Ontario’s northern ridings after September 2007.
Source: The Compendium of Election Administration in Canada, Elections Canada (2009)
Verified: 2010/06/15
Electoral Systems
ES001
Head of State
Question: How is the Head of State selected?
Answer(s):
f . Inherited monarchy with a Governor appointed by the Monarch
Comments: Canada is a constitutional monarchy and its head of state is His Majesty King Charles III, King of Canada. The monarch’s representative in Canada is the Governor General. In 1953, a Canadian law, the Royal Style and Titles Act, formally conferred upon Elizabeth II the title of "Queen of Canada", the first monarch to be separately proclaimed Sovereign of Canada. The proclamation reaffirmed the new monarch's position as Queen of Canada, independent from her role as Queen of the United Kingdom or other Commonwealth realms. This remains the case with King Charles III.
Source: Constitution Acts of Canada, 1867-1982, Art. 9-10; http://laws-lois.justice.gc.ca/PDF/CONST_E.pdf
The Royal Style and Titles Act (R.S.C., 1985, c. R-12): http://laws.justice.gc.ca/eng/acts/R-12/page-1.html
Verified: 2025/03/28
ES002
Head of Government
Question: How is the Head of Government selected?
Answer:
d . Leader of the party which forms the government becomes Head of Government
Comments: The head of government is the Prime Minister. The Prime Minister is the leader of the party that commands the majority of seats (in the case of a majority government), or commands a larger number of seats than any other party in the House of Commons (in the case of a minority government). The Prime Minister is not a Constitutional title or position; the authority of the Prime Minister comes from assuming the formal role of Governor in Council, the leader of the Monarch’s Privy Council.
Source: Constitution Acts of Canada, 1867-1982, Art. 11
http://laws-lois.justice.gc.ca/PDF/CONST_E.pdf
Verified: 2025/03/28
ES003
President
Question: Does the country have a president?
Answer:
b . No
Comments:
Source: Constitution Acts of Canada, 1867-1982
http://laws-lois.justice.gc.ca/PDF/CONST_E.pdf
Verified: 2025/03/28
ES004
Number of Chambers
Question: The national legislature consists of (one/two chambers):
Answer:
b . Two chambers
Comments: There shall be One Parliament for Canada, consisting of the King, an Upper House styled the Senate, and the House of Commons. (Art. 17
Source: Constitution Acts of Canada, 1867-1982, Art. 17
http://laws-lois.justice.gc.ca/PDF/CONST_E.pdf
Verified: 2025/03/28
ES005
Electoral System (Chamber 1)
Question: What is the electoral system for Chamber 1 of the national legislature?
Answer(s):
a . Plurality (FPTP)
Comments: The House of Commons seats 343 members elected by direct popular vote from ridings (constituencies) across Canada.
Source: Elections Canada: General Information: The Electoral System of Canada (http://www.elections.ca/res/ces/esoc_e.pdf)
Constitution Acts of Canada, 1867-1982, Art. 37
http://laws-lois.justice.gc.ca/PDF/CONST_E.pdf
Elections Canada News Releases and Media Advisories, December 19, 2011 http://elections.ca/content.aspx?section=med&document=dec1911&dir=pre&lang=e
Verified: 2025/03/28
ES006
Question: What is the electoral system for Chamber 2 of the national legislature?
Answer(s):
j . By appointment
Comments: Senators are recommended by the Prime Minister and appointed by the Governor General.
Source: Constitution: Constitution Acts, art.23-29.
Verified: 2010/06/15
ES007
Question: If List PR is used, is a highest average formula used?
Answer:
h . Not applicable
Comments:
Source: Ron Gould, Assistant Chief Electoral Officer, Elections Canada,ron.gould(a)electc.x400.gc.ca
Verified: 2002/05/17
ES008
Question: What is the level at which seats are distributed in Chamber 1?
Answer(s):
b . Specially delimited constituencies
Comments: Members of Parliament are elected from single-seat constituencies (308 as per the 2003 Representation Order). Electoral boundaries are readjusted at each decennial census.
Source: Elections Canada
Verified: 2010/06/15
ES009
Question: What is the level at which seats are distributed in Chamber 2?
Answer(s):
c . Regional or provincial level
Comments: Senatorial seats are distributed by region, with each region sub-divided by province: Ontario (24); Quebec (24); Maritimes (24) Nova Scotia (10); New Brunswick (19); Prince Edward Island (4); Western Provinces (24) Manitoba (6); British Columbia (6); Saskatchewan (6); Alberta (6); plus additional seats for Newfoundland and Labrador (6), Yukon Territory (1), Northwest Territories (1) and Nunavut (1). Only in the province of Quebec do Senators represent a specific constituency. All other Senators represent the province or territory from which they were appointed. Four or eight additional Senators, equally representing the four regions, may be appointed. There may be no more than 113 Senators.
Note: These are already existing political entities and not specially delimitated constituencies
Source: Constitution: Constitution Acts, art.22
Verified: 2010/06/15
ES010
Question: Are special constituencies or seats reserved in Chamber 1 for specific groups, such as minorities, specific nationality or other groups?
Answer:
b . No
Comments:
Source: Constitution Acts 1867-1982, art. 37
Verified: 2010/06/17
ES012
Question: Are special constituencies or seats reserved in Chamber 2 for specific groups, such as minorities, specific nationality or other groups?
Answer:
b . No
Comments: No formal legislation supporting special seats but there may be an informal practice.
Source: Constitution: Constitution Acts 1867-1982, art. 22
Verified: 2010/06/18
ES014
Question: What is the legally imposed minimum threshold of votes required by a party to win seats in Chamber 1?
Answer:
c . Not applicable
Comments: Election is through a single-seat constituency, first-past-the-post system. The candidate who wins the greatest numbers of votes in a constituency wins the seat in the House of Commons for that constituency.
Source: Elections Canada
Verified: 2006/12/11
ES015
Question: What is the legally imposed minimum threshold of votes required by a party to win seats in Chamber 2?
Answer:
c . Not applicable
Comments: Senators are appointed.
Source: Constitution: Constitution Acts 1867-1982, art. 22-24.
Verified: 2010/06/16
ES016
Question: What is the legally imposed minimum threshold of votes required by a candidate (independent/party) to win a seat in Chamber 1?
Answer:
c . Not applicable
Comments: Election is through a single-seat constituency, first-past-the-post system. The candidate who wins the greatest numbers of votes in a constituency wins the seat in the House of Commons for that constituency.
Source: Elections Canada
Verified: 2006/12/11
ES017
Question: What is the legally imposed minimum threshold of votes required by a candidate (independent/party) to win a seat in Chamber 2?
Answer:
c . Not applicable
Comments: Senators are appointed
Source: Constitution: Constitution Acts 1867-1982, Section 22-23.
Verified: 2002/05/17
ES018
Question: Regarding the timing of the elections for Chamber 1, which of the following is true? Elections take place:
Answer(s):
a . At fixed intervals (specify length) b . Elections can be called at any time (specify by whom) c . On a fixed day of the week (specify day, specify if holiday) d . Other
Comments: Elections are usually called at the Prime Minister’s discretion. Formally, the Governor-General dissolves Parliament upon the request of the Prime Minister. However, elections can also result automatically from the Prime Minister losing the confidence of the House of Commons, signaled through the loss of a confidence vote, at which time the Governor General is asked to dissolve Parliament. Section 4 of the Canadian Charter of Rights and Freedoms further stipulates that no House of Commons shall extend over a period of five years (except in cases of “real or apprehended war, invasion or insurrection). Section 57(3) of the Canada Elections Act states that polling day must be on a Monday, or on the day after if Monday is a holiday.
An Act to amend the Canada Elections Act (formerly Bill C-16) received royal assent on May 3, 2007. Bill C-16 introduced the following amendments to the Canada Elections Act: 1. Subject to an earlier dissolution of Parliament, a general election must be held on the third Monday in October in the fourth calendar year following a previous general election, with the first general election to be held on Monday, October 19, 2009. 2.The Chief Electoral Officer may recommend an alternate day if the day set for polling is not suitable.
Source: Electoral Law: An Act to amend the Canada Elections Act (formerly Bill C-16)
Verified: 2010/06/17
ES019
Question: Regarding the timing of the elections for Chamber 2, which of the following is true? Elections take place:
Answer(s):
e . Not applicable
Comments: Senators are appointed until the age of 75. No election.
Source: Constitution: Constitution Acts 1867-1982, art. 24 & 29
Verified: 2010/06/17
ES020
Question: Regarding Chamber 1 elections (excluding advance voting, postal voting, etc):
Answer:
a . Voting takes place on one day
Comments:
Source: Electoral Law: Canada Elections Act, Clause 127.
Verified: 2010/06/18
ES021
Question: Regarding Chamber 2 elections (excluding advance voting, postal voting, etc):
Answer:
c . Not applicable
Comments: Senators are appointed
Source: Constitution: Constitution Acts 1867-1982, art. 22 & 24.
Verified: 2010/06/17
Legislative Framework
LF001
Status of Electoral Law
Question: What is the status of the electoral law governing national elections?
Answer(s):
b . Separate legislation
Comments: All rules and regulations for election administration are contained within the Canada Elections Act. Section 3 of the Canadian Charter of Rights and Freedoms enshrines the right to vote and the right to be a candidate in an election to the House of Commons while section 2 enshrines a series of constitutional freedoms: of conscience and religion; of thought, belief, opinion and expression, including freedom of the press and other media of communication; of peaceful assembly; and of association.
Source: Electoral Law: Canada Elections Act (2015)
http://laws.justice.gc.ca/PDF/E-2.01.pdf
Constitution Acts of Canada, 1867-1982
http://laws-lois.justice.gc.ca/PDF/CONST_E.pdf
Canadian Charter of Rights and Freedoms, Art.2-3
http://publications.gc.ca/collections/Collection/CH37-4-3-2002E.pdf
Verified: 2025/03/28
LF002
Question: What is the date of the latest version of the national electoral law (including latest amendments)?
Answer:
a . January 2000 or later
Comments: The Canada Elections Act was completely overhauled in 2000 with Bill C-2, An Act respecting the election of members to the House of Commons, repealing other Acts relating to elections and making consequential amendments to other Acts. The statute was significantly amended in 2003 and 2004. On June 19, 2003, Parliament put in place more extensive and stricter controls over political financing activities through Bill C-24, An Act to amend the Canada Elections Act and the Income Tax Act (political financing). In 2004, in the wake of a Supreme Court of Canada ruling, the Parliament amended the rules on the registration of political parties through Bill C-3, An Act to amend the Canada Elections Act and the Income Tax Act.
Source: Elections Canada
Verified: 2010/06/15
LF003
Electoral Law covers
Question: The national electoral law covers:
Answer(s):
a . National elections
Comments: The Canada Elections Act covers federal elections. Canada is a confederation made of a federal jurisdiction, 10 provinces and three territories, each of which has its own separate legislative framework for administering its own elections and referenda.
Source: Electoral Law: Canada Elections Act (2015)
http://laws.justice.gc.ca/PDF/E-2.01.pdf
Verified: 2025/03/28
LF004
Compulsory/voluntary voting
Question: Is voting on the national level voluntary or compulsory?
Answer(s):
a . Voting is voluntary
Comments: Every person who is qualified as an elector is entitled to vote and may freely choose whether or not to use that right.
Source: The Canada Elections Act (2015), Clause 3
http://laws.justice.gc.ca/PDF/E-2.01.pdf
Verified: 2025/03/28
LF005
Question: Are there provisions in the law which permit or require regional and/ or local election (s) to be held on the same day as national elections?
Answer:
a . National elections are not held on the same day as regional or local elections
Comments: The Canada Elections Act covers federal elections. Canada is a confederation made of a federal jurisdiction, 10 provinces and three territories, each of which has its own separate legislative framework for administering its own elections and referenda.
Source: Elections Canada
Verified: 2010/06/15
LF006
Question: Are there provisions in the law which permit or require presidential election (s) to be held on the same day as national legislative elections?
Answer(s):
c . Not applicable
Comments:
Source: Elections Canada: www.elections.ca
Verified: 2010/06/15
LF007
Electoral Disputes Agency(ies)
Question: What are the agency(ies) responsible for the first level of formal electoral disputes?
Answer(s):
a . Judiciary b . EMB
Comments: The Commissioner of Canada Elections, who is selected and appointed by the Chief Electoral Officer of Canada, ensures that the Canada Elections Act (and the Referendum Act) is enforced and complied with. The Commissioner has the necessary judiciary powers to decide whether to investigate and prosecute an offense under the Act.
Source: The Canada Elections Act (2015), Clause 479 & 522-532
http://laws.justice.gc.ca/PDF/E-2.01.pdf
Verified: 2025/03/28
LF008
Question: If the agency(ies) which settles formal disputes is/are specially appointed/elected; by whom?
Answer(s):
e . Electoral Management Body
Comments: The Commissioner of Canada Elections is selected and appointed – and may be removed by – the Chief Electoral Officer of Canada.
Source: Elections Canada
Verified: 2006/12/11
LF009
Question: Who has the right to submit cases to the person or agency(ies)which settles formal disputes?
Answer(s):
a . Candidates b . Parties c . Voters e . Other
Comments: Anyone who has evidence that a provision of the Canada Elections Act has been violated may file a written complaint with the Commissioner of Canada Elections no later than six months after the offence was committed. The Commissioner may instigate prosecution if he or she has reasonable belief that an electoral offence has been committed. Election results can be contested by any candidate or qualified elector in the competent court.
Source: Elections Canada
Verified: 2006/12/11
LF010
Question: What body(ies) is the final appellate authority for formal electoral disputes?
Answer(s):
b . Constitutional (or similar) Court d . Local Court
Comments: The final appellate authority for formal electoral disputes is the Supreme Court of Canada.
Source: Elections Canada
Verified: 2006/12/11
LF011
Question: Which body(ies) proposes electoral reforms?
Answer(s):
a . Election Management Body b . Legislative Committee c . Government d . Specially Appointed Committee
Comments:
Source: Elections Canada
Verified: 2010/06/15
Electoral Management
EM002
Responsibility of national EMB
Question: Does the national electoral body have the responsibility for elections at:
Answer(s):
a . National level
Comments: Elections Canada is an independent body set up by Parliament that is responsible for the conduct of federal elections and referendums. The Chief Electoral Officer exercises general direction and supervision over elections.
Source: The Canada Elections Act, Clause 16
http://laws.justice.gc.ca/PDF/E-2.01.pdf
Verified: 2025/03/28
EM003
Question: The national electoral management body reports to:
Answer(s):
c . The legislature
Comments: The Chief Electoral Officer reports directly to Parliament and is thus completely independent of the government of the day and all political parties.
Source: Elections Canada (www.elections.ca)
Verified: 2010/06/17
EM004
EMB budget determined by
Question: The budget of the national electoral management body is determined by:
Answer(s):
g . Other
Comments: The Chief Electoral Officer of Canada determines the budget of Elections Canada. As an independent agency of Parliament, Elections Canada is funded by two budget authorities: an annual appropriation that essentially provides for the salaries of permanent full-time staff, and a statutory authority, which provides for all other expenditures, including the salary of the Chief Electoral Officer, all expenses related to the conduct of electoral events, and continuing public education programs.
Source: Elections Canada (www.elections.ca)
Verified: 2025/03/28
EM005
EMB expenditures controlled by
Question: The expenditures of the national electoral management body are controlled by:
Answer(s):
g . Other
Comments: The Chief Electoral Officer of Canada is accountable to Parliament for all of Elections Canada’s expenditures. Expenses related to the conduct of electoral events and certain basic functions related to the mandate of the Chief Electoral Officer are paid for with the Consolidated Revenue Fund. All other expenses, including those for the permanent staff, follow an approval process: the Standing Committee on Procedure and House Affairs, which is responsible for electoral matters, recommends spending approval, and the House of Commons appropriates the funds through a motion adopting the committee recommendations.
Source: Elections Canada (2014): Compendium of Election Administration in Canada: A Comparative Overview (http://www.elections.ca/res/loi/com/compoverview2014sep_e.pdf)
Verified: 2025/03/28
EM006
Term of EMB members
Question: The term of the members of the national electoral management body is:
Answer:
d . Other
Comments: The position of the Chief Electoral Officer of Canada (CEO) was created in 1920 by the Dominion Elections Act. He or she is an Officer of Parliament appointed by a resolution of the House of Commons. He or she reports directly to Parliament and is independent of the government and all political parties. The Chief Electoral Officer serves until retirement at age 65 or resignation. He or she can only be removed from office for cause by the Governor General on a joint address of the House of Commons and the Senate.
Source: Compendium of Election Administration: Elections Canada (2014)(http://www.elections.ca/res/loi/com/compoverview2014sep_e.pdf)
Verified: 2025/03/28
EM007
Question: The national electoral management body chairperson, or equivalent, is chosen in the following way:
Answer(s):
b . Legislative appointment
Comments: The Chief Electoral Officer of Canada is an Officer of Parliament appointed by a resolution of the House of Commons. He or she reports directly to Parliament and is independent of the government and all political parties. The Chief Electoral Officer serves until retirement at age 65 or resignation. He or she can only be removed from office for cause by the Governor General on a joint address of the House of Commons and the Senate.
Source: Elections Canada
Verified: 2006/12/11
EM012
Electoral Management model
Question: What is the Electoral Management model?
Answer:
b . Independent
Comments: The Chief Electoral Officer (CEO)is appointed by a resolution of the House of Commons. He or she reports directly to Parliament and is completely independent of the government of the day and all political parties. The CEO serves until retirement at age 65 or resignation. He or she can be removed from office only for cause, by the Governor General after a joint request following a majority vote by the House of Commons and Senate.
Source: Electoral Management Design: The International IDEA Handbook (http://www.idea.int/publications/emd/upload/EMD_Annex_A.pdf)
http://www.idea.int/publications/emd/upload/EMD_inlay_final.pdf
Elections Canada:The Chief Electoral Officer of Canada: Appointment of the Chief Electoral Officer (http://elections.ca/content.asp?section=ceo&document=index&dir=app&lang=e&textonly=false)
Verified: 2025/03/28
EM013
Number of EMB members
Question: The EMB is composed of:
Answer:
a . 1 - 10 members (specify)
Comments: There is 1 member - the Chief Electoral Officer.
Source: Electoral Management Design: The International IDEA Handbook (http://www.idea.int/publications/emd/upload/EMD_Annex_A.pdf)
http://www.idea.int/publications/emd/upload/EMD_inlay_final.pdf
Verified: 2025/03/28
EM014
Membership based on
Question: The EMB members/commissioners are selected on the basis of their:
Answer:
b . Expertise
Comments:
Source: Electoral Management Design: The International IDEA Handbook (http://www.idea.int/publications/emd/upload/EMD_Annex_A.pdf)
http://www.idea.int/publications/emd/upload/EMD_inlay_final.pdf
Verified: 2025/03/28
EM015
Question: The EMB members/commissioners are selected by:
Answer(s):
e . Legislature
Comments:
Source: Electoral Management Design: The International IDEA Handbook (http://www.idea.int/publications/emd/upload/EMD_Annex_A.pdf)
http://www.idea.int/publications/emd/upload/EMD_inlay_final.pdf
Verified: 2025/03/28
Voter Education
VE001
Information campaigns performed by
Question: Who conducts information campaigns for national elections (informing where, when and how to register and/or vote)?
Answer(s):
a . National Electoral Management Body g . NGOs/ Civic Organizations h . Political parties/ candidates i . Media
Comments: According to the Canada Elections Act, the Chief Electoral Officer of Canada has the mandate to implement public education and information programs. The media, political parties, non-governmental organizations and missions abroad also contribute to the voter information campaigns during federal elections, however, this is not regulated by the Act.
Elections Canada has information available to voters on its website in both English and French.
Source: The Canada Elections Act (2015), Clause 18
http://laws.justice.gc.ca/PDF/E-2.01.pdf
Elections Canada:http://www.elections.ca/content.aspx?section=vot&lang=e
Verified: 2025/03/28
VE002
Frequency of voter education programs
Question: At the national level, how often are voter education programs conducted?
Answer:
a . Continuously
Comments: Even though voter information outreach and programs peak during electoral events, outreach, information and education drives, particularly among groups of electors that are more likely to encounter obstacles in using their right to vote, are carried out by Elections Canada on a continuous basis.
Source: Elections Canada (www.elections.ca)
Verified: 2025/03/28
VE003
National civic education
Question: Is there a national civic education campaign (rights and responsibilities of citizens)?
Answer(s):
a . No
Comments:
Source: Elections Canada (www.elections.ca)
Verified: 2025/03/28
VE004
Question: What types of voter education activities were carried out at the most recent national elections?
Answer(s):
a . Poster/ Billboard campaigns b . Media advertisement c . Simulation exercises f . Mail-outs g . Internet h . Other
Comments: For more details on voter information activities, please consult the Statutory Report on the 2010 general election on http://www.elections.ca/content.asp?section=gen&document=responding&dir=rep/re2/r40&lang=e&textonly=false
Source: Elections Canada (www.elections.ca)
Verified: 2010/06/23
VE005
Question: What types of civic education activities were carried out at the most recent national elections?
Answer(s):
i . Not applicable
Comments:
Source: Ron Gould
Verified: 2006/12/11
VE006
Question: Special voter education programs were developed at the most recent national elections for:
Answer(s):
a . Disabled b . Young people/ first time voters d . Ethnic minorities e . Indigenous groups f . Illiterates g . Other
Comments: For more details on special voter education programs, please consult the Chief Electoral Officer’s Statutory Report on the 2006 general election on www.elections.ca.
Source: Elections Canada (www.elections.ca)
Verified: 2006/12/11
Voter Registration
VR001
Voting age
Question: What is the legal voting age in the national elections?
Answer:
c . 18
Comments:
Source: The Canada Elections Act (2015), Clause 3
http://laws.justice.gc.ca/PDF/E-2.01.pdf
Verified: 2025/03/28
VR002
Other voting requirements
Question: Beyond age, what other qualifications exist for registering to vote and voting in the national elections?
Answer(s):
a . Citizenship e . Other
Comments: In order to be entitled to vote, a Canadian citizen must not have been living outside Canada for a period exceeding five years.
Those who are confined to a correctional institution for a period exceeding 2 years are not eligible to vote.
Source: The Canada Elections Act (2015), Clause 3-6, 11&12
http://laws.justice.gc.ca/PDF/E-2.01.pdf
Verified: 2025/03/28
VR003
Question: What restrictions on registering to vote and voting exist in the country?
Answer(s):
a . Criminal Incarceration h . Other
Comments: The Chief Electoral Officer, the Assistant Chief Electoral Officer and, every person who is imprisoned in a correctional institution serving a sentence of two years or more are not entitled to vote.
Any person residing outside of the country for more than five consecutive years.
Source: Electoral Law: Canada Elections Act, Clause 4 & 11
Verified: 2010/06/18
VR004
Authority responsible for voter registration
Question: Which is the authority responsible for the registration of voters for national elections?
Answer:
d . Election Management Body (specify)
Comments: The Office of the Chief Electoral Officer of Canada (Elections Canada)
Source: The Canada Elections Act (2015), Clause 44
http://laws.justice.gc.ca/PDF/E-2.01.pdf
Verified: 2025/03/28
VR008
Is it compulsory to be on the voters register?
Question: Is it compulsory to be on the voters register?
Answer:
b . No
Comments:
Source: The Canada Elections Act (2015), Clause 48-49 & 52
http://laws.justice.gc.ca/PDF/E-2.01.pdf
Verified: 2025/03/28
Parties and Candidates
PC001
Registration requirements for parties (Chamber 1)
Question: What are the registration requirements for political parties running for national elections (Chamber 1)?
Answer(s):
a . Signature requirement (specify requirement) e . Minimum number of candidates f . Other
Comments: The Canada Elections Act requires a statement that the party has appointed a leader and three other officials, along with their names, addresses; the names, addresses and at least 250 signed supportive declarations of members of the party; a signed declaration by the leader that one of the fundamental purposes of the party is to “participate in public affairs by endorsing one or more of its members as candidates and supporting their election”. The Chief Electoral Officer must be satisfied that the information in the application is accurate and that the organization is a political party, and may ask for additional documents (including the party's constitution, by-laws and program) if he or she deems it necessary. A party that meets these administrative requirements becomes eligible for registration and its registered status is granted when it nominates at least one candidate in an election.
Source: The Canada Elections Act (2015)
http://laws-lois.justice.gc.ca/PDF/E-2.01.pdf
Elections Canada: Backgrounders: Registration of Federal Political Parties (http://www.elections.ca/content.asp?section=gen&document=ec90530&dir=bkg&lang=e&textonly=false)
Verified: 2025/03/28
PC002
Registration requirements for parties (Chamber 2)
Question: What are the registration requirements for political parties running for national elections (Chamber 2)?
Answer(s):
g . No information available
Comments: Senators are appointed.
Source: Elections Canada
Verified: 2010/06/22
PC003
Registration requirements for candidates (Chamber 1)
Question: What are the legal qualifications to become a candidate at legislative elections (Chamber 1)?
Answer(s):
a . Age b . Citizenship d . Residence
Comments: Any person qualified as an elector may run for an election in the House of Commons. More precisely, any candidate must be a Canadian citizen and be at least 18 years old on election day.
A person who is disentitled under paragraph 502(3)(a) while they are so disentitled, a member of the legislature of a province, the Council of the Northwest Territories or the Legislative Assembly of Yukon or Nunavut, a sheriff, clerk of the peace or county Crown Attorney in any of the provinces, a person who is not entitled under section 4 to vote, a judge appointed by the Governor in Council, other than a citizenship judge appointed under the Citizenship Act, a person who is imprisoned in a correctional institution, an election officer and a person who was a candidate in a previous election and for whom a return, report, document or declaration has not been provided under subsection 451(1), if the time and any extension for providing it have expired.
-Canada Elections Act, Part 3 (Candidates), Clause 65
Source: The Canada Elections Act (2015), Part 3
http://laws-lois.justice.gc.ca/PDF/E-2.01.pdf
Verified: 2025/03/28
PC004
Registration requirements for candidates (Chamber 2)
Question: What are the legal qualifications to become a candidate at legislative elections (Chamber 2)?
Answer(s):
a . Age b . Citizenship d . Residence j . Other
Comments: Senators are appointed.
Source: Elections Canada
Constitution: Constitution Acts 1867-1982, art.23
Verified: 2010/06/18
PC005
Question: What are the legal qualifications for becoming a candidate at presidential elections?
Answer(s):
k . Not applicable
Comments: Canada does not have an elected Head of State.
Source: Elections Canada
Verified: 2010/06/18
PC006
Question: What can disqualify a candidate at legislative elections?
Answer(s):
a . Current criminal incarceration b . Detention c . Criminal record e . Offences against electoral law g . Holding of government office n . Holding of other public offices (police etc.) o . Other
Comments: Persons disqualified from being candidates are: those who are not qualified electors on the date of filing nomination papers; those not entitled to vote under the Canada Elections Act, a territorial or provincial legislator; an election officer; a judge appointed by the Governor in Council (Prime Minister), other than a citizenship judge appointed under the Citizenship Act; a sheriff, clerk of the peace or county Crown Attorney in any of the province; a person who was a candidate in a previous election and for whom a return has not been provided. Conviction for an offence of corrupt or illegal practices under the Canada Elections Act can lead to a temporary disqualification from running for office, for a period of five or seven years, depending on the type of offence.
Source: Elections Canada (www.elections.ca)
Verified: 2010/06/22
PC007
Question: What can disqualify a candidate at presidential elections?
Answer(s):
o . Not applicable
Comments: Canada does not have an elected Head of State.
Source: Elections Canada (www.elections.ca)
Verified: 2006/12/11
PC008
Independent candidates
Question: Can independent candidates compete in presidential or legislative elections?
Answer(s):
c . In legislative elections (Chamber 1)
Comments: Only the legislative chamber (Chamber 1) has elected seats. Non-affiliated candidates may chose to have a designation as “independent” (or no designation) under their name on the ballot, where affiliated candidates would have the name of their affiliated political party.
Source: Elections Canada (http://www.elections.ca/content.asp?section=faq&document=faqpol&lang=e&textonly=false#elec7)
The Canada Elections Act (2015), Clauses 3,4 & 65
http://laws-lois.justice.gc.ca/PDF/E-2.01.pdf
Verified: 2025/03/28
PC009
Question: If independent candidates can compete in legislative elections (Chamber 1), what are the registration requirements?
Answer(s):
a . Signature requirement (specify) b . Deposit requirement (specify)
Comments: The requirements are the same for affiliates and independent candidates. Nomination papers must be submitted to the returning officer by the witness of the prospective candidate's sworn consent to the nomination. The papers include a witnessed declaration signed by the candidate stating that he or she accepts the nomination, statements signed by the official agent and the auditor consenting to act in those capacities, the candidate's name, permanent address and occupation, the official agent's name and permanent address, and the name, business address and occupation of the auditor. The nomination papers must be signed before a witness by at least 100 persons who are electors entitled to vote in the riding in which the candidate is seeking nomination (50 signatures are required for candidates in the larger or remote ridings listed in Schedule 3 of the Canada Elections Act). A candidate is also required to pay a deposit of $1,000, reimbursed if the candidate's official agent submits the candidate's election expenses returns and unused official receipts within the required time.
Source: Electoral Law: Canada Elections Act, Clauses 3,4 & 65
Verified: 2006/12/13
PC010
Question: If independent candidates can compete in legislative elections (Chamber 2), what are the registration requirements?
Answer(s):
e . Not applicable
Comments: Senators are appointed. In theory, a person does not have to be affiliated to a political party to be appointed to the Senate.
Source: Elections Canada
Verified: 2010/06/22
PC011
Question: If independent candidates can compete in presidential elections, what are the registration requirements?
Answer(s):
e . Not Applicable
Comments: Canada does not have an elected Head of State.
Source: Elections Canada
Verified: 2010/06/22
PC012
Public funding of parties
Question: Do political parties receive direct/indirect public funding?
Answer(s):
b . Direct c . Indirect
Comments: Political parties that become registered under the Canada Elections Act become entitled to various sources of direct and indirect public funding. Registered political parties that receive at least 2% of the valid votes cast nationally in a general election, or 5% in the ridings where they endorsed a candidate, become entitled to a reimbursement of 50% of their allowable election expenses, and to an annual allowance of $1,75 CAN per valid vote obtained in that general election. Candidates that receive at least 10% of the valid votes cast in their riding become entitled to a reimbursement of 60% of their allowable election expenses. In terms of indirect public funding, registered political parties can give receipts for tax credits on political contributions. All political parties receive a certain amount of broadcasting time at no cost (television and radio broadcast) for conveying their message to the electorate.
Source: Elections Canada: Backgrounders: Financing of Registered Political Parties – New Rules on January 1, 2004 (http://www.elections.ca/content.asp?section=gen&document=ec90532&dir=bkg&lang=e&textonly=false)
Verified: 2025/03/28
PC013
Question: If political parties receive direct/indirect public funding, when do they receive this?
Answer(s):
c . As related to the election period and between elections
Comments: Registered political parties that are eligible to the annual allowance receive quarterly instalments, corresponding to $0.4375 CAN per valid vote obtained in the most recent general. Registered political parties that are entitled to a reimbursement of 50% of their allowable election expenses receive one single payment once they have produced their election returns. Candidates who are eligible to a reimbursement of 60% of their allowable election expenses receive two instalments; the first amounts to 15% of their expenses, and the second corresponds to the balance required to equal the total amount to be reimbursed.
Source: Elections Canada: Backgrounders:Financing of Registered Political Parties – New Rules on January 1, 2004 (http://www.elections.ca/content.asp?section=gen&document=ec90532&dir=bkg&lang=e&textonly=false)
Verified: 2010/06/22
PC014
Question: If political parties receive indirect public funding, identify the type of funding:
Answer(s):
a . Free media access b . Tax credits
Comments: The Broadcasting Arbitrator, who is appointed by the Chief Electoral Officer of Canada, is responsible for allocating a period of 6 1/2 hours in broadcasting time to eligible and registered political parties at no cost, using a formula set out in the Canada Elections Act. The Income Tax Act regulates tax credits for contributions to registered political parties and candidates. They correspond to 75% of contributions not exceeding $400 CAN); $300 CANplus 50% of the amount by which the contribution exceeds $400 CAN; the lesser of $475 CAN plus one third of the amount by which the contribution exceeds$750 CAN, or $650 CAN for contributions exceeding$750 CAN.
Source: Elections Canada:Backgrounders:Financing of Registered Political Parties – New Rules on January 1, 2004 (http://www.elections.ca/content.asp?section=gen&document=ec90532&dir=bkg&lang=e&textonly=false)
Verified: 2010/06/22
PC015
Question: What is the basis of the public funding?
Answer(s):
b . Based on result of previous election c . Based on current legislative representation d . Based on number of candidates put forward in present election
Comments: Annual allowances for registered political parties are based on the number of valid votes obtained nationally in the previous general election the party must receive at least 2 percent of the valid votes cast, or at least 5 percent of the valid votes cast in the electoral districts in which the party endorsed a candidate. The apportionment of broadcasting time among political parties is based on a formula that gives equal weight to the percentage of seats in the House of Commons and the share of the popular vote in the previous general election, and half weight to the number of candidates endorsed by each of the registered parties at the previous general election, expressed as a percentage of all candidates endorsed by all registered parties at that election.
Source: Elections Canada:Backgrounders:Financing of Registered Political Parties – New Rules on January 1, 2004 (http://www.elections.ca/content.asp?section=gen&document=ec90532&dir=bkg&lang=e&textonly=false)
Verified: 2025/03/28
PC016
Question: If political parties receive public funding, what is the specified purpose?
Answer(s):
b . Election campaign activities c . Unspecified
Comments: The Canada Elections Act does not specify the purposes funds have to be spent on, except for election reimbursements which are for election expenses.
Source: Elections Canada
Verified: 2010/06/22
PC017
Question: Are political parties entitled to private funding?
Answer:
a . Yes
Comments: Individuals who are Canadian citizens or permanent residents, corporations that carry on business in Canada, trade unions that hold bargaining rights for employees in Canada and unincorporated associations may contribute up to a certain annual ceiling.Any individual who is a Canadian citizen or permanent resident of Canada may contribute up to $5,000 in total in a calendar year to a particular registered party
Source: Backgrounders:Financing of Registered Political Parties – New Rules on January 1, 2004 (http://www.elections.ca/content.asp?section=gen&document=ec90532&dir=bkg&lang=e&textonly=false)
Verified: 2025/03/28
PC018
Question: If political parties are entitled to private funding, for what period?
Answer(s):
c . As related to the election period and between elections
Comments: Individuals, corporations, unions and unincorporated associations (e.g. trusts) are not allowed to give contributions to registered political parties and must abide by a limit of $1,000 CAN per year on their aggregated contributions to local electoral district associations and candidates. Using the same exchange rate, individuals may donate up to$5,000 CAN dollars per annum; other entities are limited to $1,000 CAN yearly. Individual may donate an additional $5,000 in any single fiscal year to a leadership contestant. Other entities may donate an additional $1,000 CAN to nomination contestants. Individuals and other entities are also allowed to donate an additional $5,000 CAN and $1,000 CAN respectively per election event.
Source: Elections Canada:Backgrounders:Financing of Registered Political Parties – New Rules on January 1, 2004 (http://www.elections.ca/content.asp?section=gen&document=ec90532&dir=bkg&lang=e&textonly=false)
Verified: 2006/12/11
PC019
Question: Which of the following party financing provisions are applicable?
Answer(s):
a . Public disclosure of party contributions received b . Public disclosure of party expenditure c . Prohibition on party funding from foreign sources d . Ceilings on how much money a party can raise e . Ceilings on party election expenses f . Electronic reporting of party expenses g . Electronic reporting of party contributions received h . Publication or public access to contribution and / or expenditure reports i . Other
Comments: i) Partial reimbursement of election expenses, allocation of annual subsidies and free broadcasting time.
Source: Elections Canada
Verified: 2006/12/13
PC020
Question: Which of the following candidate financing provisions are applicable?
Answer(s):
a . Public disclosure of candidate contributions received b . Public disclosure of candidate expenditure c . Prohibition on candidate funding from foreign sources d . Ceilings on how much money a candidate can raise e . Ceilings on candidate election expenses f . Electronic reporting of candidate expenses g . Electronic reporting of candidate contributions received h . Publication or public access to contribution and / or expenditure reports
Comments:
Source: Electoral Law: Canada Elections Act/
Backgrounders:Financing of Registered Political Parties – New Rules on January 1, 2004 (http://www.elections.ca/content.asp?section=gen&document=ec90532&dir=bkg&lang=e&textonly=false)
Verified: 2006/12/11
PC021
Question: Who is responsible for administering and enforcing party income/funding regulations at national level?
Answer(s):
a . National Electoral Management body b . Regulated body specially created for this purpose
Comments: The Chief Electoral Officer of Canada is responsible for administering the parties’ income and funding regulations. The Commissioner of Canada Elections, who is appointed by the Chief Electoral Officer, has the authority to ensuring compliance with, and enforcing the provisions of the Canada Elections Act.
Source: Elections Canada
Verified: 2010/06/22
Vote Counting
VC001
Question: What are the characteristics of ballots used at national legislative elections (Chamber 1)?
Answer(s):
c . Write-in ballot d . Categorical (only one mark allowed) l . No photos or logos, only party and/or candidate names m . Organized alphabetically o . Ballots signed or otherwise authenticated by polling station official p . Bilingual
Comments: c) for special ballot only.
The same ballot is used nation-wide, but the list of candidates changes from one electoral district to the other to reflect the candidates running in each district. Special ballots, which are used for voting by mail or in advance, are blank templates that allow for the elector to write-in the candidate’s name, and are exactly the same nation-wide.
Source: Electoral Law: Canada Elections Act Part 8 (Preparation for The Vote), Clause 115-117
Verified: 2010/06/18
VC002
Question: What are the characteristics of ballots used at national legislative elections (Chamber 2)?
Answer(s):
s . Not applicable
Comments: Senate appointed
Source: Elections Canada
Verified: 2010/06/18
VC003
Question: What are the characteristics of ballots used at presidential elections?
Answer(s):
s . Not Applicable
Comments: No presidential elections in Canada
Source:
Verified: 2010/06/22
VC004
Votes are sorted/counted at
Question: Following the close of the voting, where are the votes first sorted and counted?
Answer:
d . Other
Comments: All regular votes cast on polling day are counted at the polling stations. Special mail-in ballots cast from within electors’ districts are returned to the office of the returning officer for each district, and counted there. Special mail-in ballots cast from outside electors’ assigned districts are returned to Elections Canada and counted there.
Source: The Canada Elections Act (2015), Part 12, Division 6
http://laws-lois.justice.gc.ca/PDF/E-2.01.pdf
Verified: 2025/03/28
VC005
Question: What procedures are used in the initial count?
Answer(s):
b . Preliminary count of all ballots in ballot box c . Tally of voters who voted d . Number of ballots in box reconciled against number of voters e . Number of ballots reconciled against ballots initially received (minus spoilt and unused) f . Each ballot paper held up for public scrutiny, with name of party/candidate called out loud j . Sorted into piles according to individual party/candidate l . Counted by hand
Comments: For ordinary ballots, the deputy returning officer must count the votes in the presence and in full view of the poll clerk and the candidates or their representative, or if the candidates or any of them are absent, in the presence of those candidates that are present, or of at least two electors if none of the candidates are represented.
Source: Electoral Law: Canada Elections Act, Part 11 & 12
Verified: 2010/06/22
VC006
Question: Following the sorting and counting, to where are the results first transmitted for consolidation?
Answer(s):
c . District level
Comments:
Source: Elections Canada Online (www.elections.ca)
Verified: 2009/11/04
VC007
Question: At what levels are seats allocated?
Answer(s):
b . District level
Comments: Each electoral district comprises one seat, which is allocated to the candidate who receives the most votes.
Source: Elections Canada (www.elections.ca)
Verified: 2009/11/04
VC008
Question: How are the initial/preliminary polling results transmitted and communicated to the different levels?
Answer(s):
a . Physically transported
Comments: "The deputy returning officer for a polling station or an advance poll shall, without delay after sealing the ballot box, send the box, with the envelope that contains the original statement of the vote and the envelope that contains the registration certificate, to the returning office."
Source: Electoral Law: Canada Elections Act, Part 13, Clause 297
Verified: 2010/06/22
VC009
Question: If the polling results are physically transported, what is transported?
Answer(s):
a . Ballots b . Unused and spoiled ballots c . Counterfoils of used ballots d . Voter rolls f . Certificate of result g . Ballot boxes h . Other
Comments: The deputy returning officer for a polling station or an advance poll shall, without delay after sealing the ballot box, send the box, with the envelope that contains the original statement of the vote and the envelope that contains the registration certificate, to the returning office.
Source: Elections Canada
Source: Elections Canada
Verified: 2009/11/04
VC010
Question: If the polling results are physically transported, what security measures are used?
Answer(s):
d . Transported in boxes sealed with numbered seals e . Accompanied by election officials f . Accompanied by party representatives
Comments: A returning officer, on the receipt of each ballot box, shall take every precaution to prevent any other person, except the assistant returning officer, from having access to it; and examine and record the condition of the seals affixed to it and if necessary affix new seals.
Source: Elections Canada
Verified: 2009/11/04
VC011
When are ballots recounted?
Question: Under what conditions are ballots recounted?
Answer(s):
c . Automatically (triggered) recounted under certain conditions d . By request e . Court order
Comments: Any elector may apply to a judge for a recount within 4 days of the returning officer issuing a certificate of votes cast. The judge shall fix the date for a recount within 4 days of receiving the request. A judicial recount must take place if the difference between the number of votes cast for the candidate with the most votes and the number of votes cast for any other candidate is less than one one-thousandth of the votes cast. Upon application by an elector, a judge may conduct a judicial recount if there is credible affidavit evidence that the deputy returning officer incorrectly counted or rejected ballots; the deputy returning officer made an incorrect statement of the vote; or the returning officer incorrectly added up the votes.
Source: Elections Canada (www.elections.ca)
The Canada Elections Act (2015), Part 14 (Judicial Recount)
http://laws-lois.justice.gc.ca/PDF/E-2.01.pdf
Verified: 2025/03/28
VC012
Question: If automatically recounted, what is the trigger?
Answer:
a . Closeness of results
Comments: A judicial recount must take place if the difference between the number of votes cast for the candidate with the most votes and the number of votes cast for any other candidate is less than one one-thousandth of the votes cast.
Source: Elections Canada
Verified: 2009/11/04
VC013
Question: If ballots are recounted by request, who can make the request?
Answer(s):
f . Other
Comments: Any elector may request a recount. This definition would include representatives of political parties, individual candidates and election officials.
Source: Elections Canada
Verified: 2009/11/04
VC014
Question: If recounted, who conducts the recount?
Answer(s):
h . Courts
Comments:
Source: Elections Canada
Verified: 2009/11/04
VC015
Question: Are preliminary results announced?
Answer:
a . Yes
Comments: Preliminary results are transmitted to the media electronically as they unfold and posted on the Elections Canada Web site; they remain available for consultation until the final results are posted.
Source: Elections Canada
Verified: 2009/11/04
VC017
Question: Is there a legal requirement for the declaration of the officially certified results?
Answer:
a . Yes
Comments: Each returning officer must validate the count of the valid votes cast in his/her electoral district.
Source: Electoral Law: Canada Elections Act, Part 13
Verified: 2010/06/18
VC018
Question: How long after the close of polls is the certified results publicly announced? (if there is no legal requirement enter the average time)
Answer:
b . days:
Comments: Each returning officer is required to declare elected the candidate who has obtained the largest number of votes immediately after the sixth day following the date on which he has completed the validation of the votes. This requirement is waived in those cases where there is a recount.
Source: Elections Canada
Verified: 2009/11/04
Media and Elections
ME002
Question: Which of the following types of radio stations are present at a national level in your country?
Answer(s):
a . Publicly owned c . Privately owned
Comments:
Source: Elections Canada
Verified: 2010/06/22
ME003
Question: Which of the following types of television stations are present at a national level in your country?
Answer(s):
a . Publicly owned c . Privately owned
Comments:
Source: Elections Canada
Verified: 2010/06/22
ME004
Question: Which of the following types of daily and weekly newspapers are present at a national level in your country?
Answer(s):
c . Privately owned
Comments:
Source: Elections Canada
Verified: 2010/06/22
ME005
Question: Which of the following do you believe best describes the print media situation at the national level in your country?
Answer:
d . No government newspaper: competition between two or more major private newspapers
Comments:
Source: Elections Canada
Verified: 2010/06/22
ME006
Question: What proportion of the population can receive transmissions of the national level programming of private radio stations?
Answer:
a . Over 60%
Comments: According to a survey conducted in the Fall of 2005 by BBM Canada (a not-for-profit broadcast research company), radio reaches 92.1% of the Canadian population aged 12 years and over on a weekly basis.
Source: Elections Canada
Verified: 2010/06/22
ME008
Question: What proportion of the population can receive transmissions of the national level programming of private television stations?
Answer:
a . Over 60%
Comments: According to a survey conducted in the Fall of 2005 by BBM Canada (a not-for-profit, broadcast research company), television reaches 95.5% of the Canadian population aged 2 years and over on a weekly basis.
Source: Elections Canada
Verified: 2010/06/22
ME014
Question: What proportion of the population can receive transmissions of the national level programming of the public television stations?
Answer:
a . Over 60%
Comments:
Source:
Verified: 2010/06/22
ME015
Question: What proportion of the population can receive transmissions of the national level programming of the national level programming of the public radio stations?
Answer:
a . Over 60 %
Comments: The Broadcasting Act stipulates that the programming provided by the Canadian Broadcasting Corporation (CBC) be made available throughout Canada. See Broadcasting Act 1991, s. 3 (1) (m) (vii). According to a survey conducted in the Fall of 2005 by BBM Canada (a not-for-profit broadcast research company), radio reaches 92.1% of the Canadian population aged of 12 years old and more on a weekly basis.
Source: Elections Canada
Verified: 2010/06/22
ME016
Question: In your opinion, upon which types of media at national level in your country do citizens most rely as a source of information? Mark the most important source with 1, and the second most important source with 2:
Answer(s):
d . Public television f . Private television
Comments: 1 Private television
2 Public television
Source: Elections Canada
Verified: 2010/06/22
ME017
Question: In your opinion, which of the following types of media in your country have a public reputation for being independent?
Answer(s):
a . Public radio c . Public television
Comments:
Source: Elections Canada
Verified: 2006/12/11
ME020
Question: Who grants licenses/frequencies to private broadcasters?
Answer:
a . Government
Comments: The Canadian Radio-Television and Telecommunications Commission (CRTC)
Source: Elections Canada
Verified: 2010/06/22
ME021
Question: Who is allowed to hold broadcasting licenses?
Answer(s):
a . Political parties b . Private companies c . Non governmental organisations d . Foreigners e . Government departments f . State owned companies
Comments: Although there is no restriction to apply for a broadcasting licence, applicants must meet certain criteria in the following areas: ownership, financial capacity, technical capacity and programming requirements.
Source: Elections Canada
Verified: 2010/06/22
ME023
Question: Are any journalists currently imprisoned or facing criminal charges for exercising their profession?
Answer:
b . No
Comments:
Source: Elections Canada
Verified: 2006/12/11
ME024
Question: What legal instruments are used to regulate media coverage of elections?
Answer(s):
a . Law
Comments: The Canada Elections Act; the Broadcasting Act 1991 and the Criminal Code all regulate, to some extent, the media coverage of elections.
Source: Elections Canada
Verified: 2010/06/22
ME025
Question: Which of the following bodies or agencies has a responsibility in the regulation of media coverage of elections?
Answer(s):
a . Statutory regulator (e.g. broadcasting licensing body) d . Legislature g . EMB by law or regulations
Comments:
Source: Elections Canada
Verified: 2006/12/11
ME026
Question: What form does the responsibility, if any, of the EMB to regulate media coverage of elections take?
Answer(s):
d . Other (specify)
Comments: The Chief Electoral Officer provides for the regulation of:
1) broadcasting time;
2) election opinion surveys; and
3) election advertising
See Canada Elections Act ss. 323, 326 to 328, 335 to 348.
Source: Electoral Law:Canada Elections Act ss. 323, 326-328, 335-348
Verified: 2010/06/22
ME027
Question: Does the EMB monitor media coverage of elections?
Answer:
a . Yes
Comments:
Source: Elections Canada
Verified: 2010/06/22
ME029
Question: Do political parties or candidates have a right to have their replies to inaccurate or misleading media coverage published promptly and free of charge?
Answer:
b . No
Comments: According the Criminal Code, every one who is proven guilty of defamatory libel is liable to imprisonment for a term not exceeding two years. Furthermore, every one who publishes a defamatory libel that he knows is false is guilty of an indictable offence and liable to imprisonment for a term not exceeding five years. See Criminal Code, ss. 300, 301.
Source: Elections Canada
Verified: 2006/12/11
ME030
Question: What is the legal liability of the media if they report unlawful statements by candidates during election campaigns (e.g. defamatory or inflammatory speeches)?
Answer(s):
a . Criminal prosecution b . Administrative sanction
Comments: Media can have their licence suspended by the Canadian Radio-Television and Telecommunications Commission. Media can also be prosecuted for libel by offended candidates (see Broadcasting Act 1991, ss. 12 (2), (3)).
In this regard, the Criminal Code stipulates that every one who is proven guilty of defamatory libel is liable to imprisonment for a term not exceeding two years. Furthermore, every one who publishes a defamatory libel that he knows is false is guilty of an indictable offence and liable to imprisonment for a term not exceeding five years (see Criminal Code, ss. 300, 301).
Source: Elections Canada
Verified: 2006/12/19
ME031
Question: Have the media or journalists' organisations adopted a code of ethics specific to elections? Please send us a copy.
Answer:
a . Yes
Comments: The Canadian Broadcasting Corporation possesses a Charter of Journalistic Standards and Practices. It can be found at the following address: www.cbc.radio-canada.ca/accountability/journalistic/index.shtml.
Source: Elections Canada
Verified: 2006/12/11
ME033
Question: Which body, if any, is responsible for regulating free or paid access of political parties or candidates to the media during election campaigns.
Answer:
b . Other (specify)
Comments: The Broadcasting Arbitrator, who is appointed by the Chief Electoral Officer of Canada, is responsible to allocate broadcasting time to registered political parties. See Canada Elections Act ss. 335, 338, 345
Source: Elections Canada
Verified: 2006/12/11
ME034
Question: Which of the following types of radio stations provide political parties with free broadcast time for national election campaigns?
Answer(s):
a . Publicly owned c . Privately owned
Comments: The Canada Elections Act stipulates that every network operator shall make available at no cost to the registered parties and eligible parties broadcasting time for the transmission of political announcements and other programming produced by or on behalf of those parties.
The minimum amount of broadcasting time that a network operator is to make available shall be no less than the amount of free broadcasting time made available by it at the last general election and shall be made available as follows:
(a) two minutes to every registered party; and
(b) the remainder to all registered parties that have been allocated any of the broadcasting time to be made available and all eligible parties that have requested broadcasting time in the proportion that their allocated or requested purchasable broadcasting time bears to the total broadcasting time allocated or requested
See Canada Elections Act ss. 345, 346
Source: Elections Canada
Verified: 2006/12/19
ME035
Question: Which of the following types of television stations provide political parties with free broadcast time for national election campaigns?
Answer(s):
a . Publicly owned c . Privately owned
Comments: The Canada Elections Act stipulates that every network operator shall make available at no cost to the registered parties and eligible parties broadcasting time for the transmission of political announcements and other programming produced by or on behalf of those parties.
The minimum amount of broadcasting time that a network operator is to make available shall be no less than the amount of free broadcasting time made available by it at the last general election and shall be made available as follows:
(a) two minutes to every registered party; and
(b) the remainder to all registered parties that have been allocated any of the broadcasting time to be made available and all eligible parties that have requested broadcasting time in the proportion that their allocated or requested purchasable broadcasting time bears to the total broadcasting time allocated or requested
See Canada Elections Act ss. 345, 346
Source: Elections Canada
Verified: 2006/12/19
ME037
Criteria for allocating free broadcast time
Question: What are the criteria for allocating free broadcast time and/or free printed advertisement space to political parties?
Answer(s):
d . Based on mixture of principles (specify)
Comments: The allocation of free broadcasting time depends on two criteria, the percentage of seats in the House of Commons held by each of the registered parties at the previous general election and the percentage of the popular vote at the previous general election of each registered party. The Broadcast Arbitrator shall in addition give half the weight given to each of the factors above to the number of candidates endorsed by each of the registered parties at the previous general election, expressed as a percentage of all candidates endorsed by all registered parties at that election. See Canada Elections Act ss. 338, 339.
Source: The Canada Elections Act (2015), Clause 338-339
http://laws-lois.justice.gc.ca/PDF/E-2.01.pdf
Verified: 2025/03/28
ME039
Question: Which of the following types of radio stations provide individual candidates (legislative) with free broadcast time for national election campaigns?
Answer(s):
e . None
Comments:
Source: Elections Canada
Verified: 2006/12/11
ME040
Question: Which of the following types of television stations provide individual candidates (legislative) with free broadcast time for national election campaigns?
Answer(s):
e . None
Comments:
Source: Elections Canada
Verified: 2006/12/11
ME041
Question: Which of the following types of daily and weekly newspaper provide individual candidates (legislative) with free printed advertisement space for national election campaigns?
Answer(s):
e . None
Comments:
Source: Elections Canada
Verified: 2006/12/11
ME042
Question: What are the criteria for allocating free broadcast time and/or free printed advertisement space to individual candidates (legislative)?
Answer(s):
h . Not applicable
Comments:
Source: Elections Canada
Verified: 2006/12/11
ME043
Question: Which of the following types of radio stations provide individual candidates (legislative) with paid broadcast time for national election campaigns?
Answer(s):
a . Publicly owned c . Privately owned
Comments:
Source: Elections Canada
Verified: 2006/12/11
ME044
Question: Which of the following types of television stations provide individual candidates (legislative) with paid broadcast time and/or paid printed advertisement space for national election campaigns?
Answer(s):
a . Publicly owned c . Privately owned
Comments:
Source: Elections Canada
Verified: 2006/12/11
ME045
Question: Which of the following types of daily and weekly newspapers provide individual candidates (legislative) with printed advertisement space for national election campaigns?
Answer(s):
c . Privately owned
Comments:
Source: Elections Canada
Verified: 2006/12/11
ME046
Question: What are the criteria for allocating paid broadcast time and/or paid printed advertisement space to individual candidates (legislative)?
Answer(s):
i . Not applicable
Comments:
Source: Elections Canada
Verified: 2006/12/11
ME057
What, if any, is the maximum amount that a media outlet can charge parties/candidates for advertising during the campaign?
......... According to the Canada Elections Act, no person shall charge a registered party, any other political party or a candidate (a) a rate for broadcasting time made available to the party or candidate, in the period beginning on the issue of the writs and ending at midnight on the second day before polling day, that exceeds the lowest rate charged by the person for an equal amount of equivalent time on the same facilities made available to any other person at any time within that period; or (b) a rate for an advertisement in a periodical publication published or distributed and made public that exceeds the lowest rate charged by the person for an equal amount of equivalent advertising space in the same issue of the periodical publication or in any other issue of it that is published or distributed and made public in that period.
The law does not specify any limits
Source
Elections Canada
Verified
2009/08/31
ME059
Television debates
Question: Are televised debates between candidates or party representatives normally conducted?
Answer(s):
b . Yes, in legislative elections
Comments:
Source: The Canada Elections Act (2015), Clause 319
http://laws-lois.justice.gc.ca/PDF/E-2.01.pdf
Verified: 2025/03/28
ME061
Question: Which of the following information in reporting the results of opinion polls are required to be disclosed by law?
Answer(s):
a . Person or agency that commissioned the opinion poll b . Geographical coverage c . Characteristics of the sample d . Size of the sample e . Margin of error f . Other
Comments: Election opinion surveys must also disclose the name of the person or organization that conducted the survey and, when it is transmitted to the public by means other than broadcasting, the wording of the survey questions. See Canada Elections Act s. 326.
Source: Elections Canada
Verified: 2006/12/11
ME062
Blackout period for release of opinion poll results.
Question: What is the blackout period, if any, during which results of pre-election opinion polls may not be released to the public?
Answer:
a . 1 day
Comments: No person shall transmit to the public, in an electoral district on polling day before the close of all of the polling stations in that electoral district, the results of an election survey that have not previously been transmitted to the public.
Source: The Canada Elections Act, Clause 328
http://laws-lois.justice.gc.ca/PDF/E-2.01.pdf
Verified: 2025/03/28
ME063
Question: Where, if at all, may exit polls be carried out?
Answer(s):
d . No exit polls conducted to date
Comments:
Source: Elections Canada (www.elections.ca)
Verified: 2006/12/11
ME064
Question: If exit polls are permitted, when can the results be disseminated via the media?
Answer(s):
e . Not applicable
Comments:
Source: Elections Canada (www.elections.ca)
Verified: 2006/12/11
ME065
Question: When are the media, by law, allowed to report preliminary election results?
Answer:
b . After all polls close, before official results are available
Comments:
Source: Elections Canada (www.elections.ca)
Electoral Law: Canada Elections Act, Clause 329
Verified: 2010/06/29
ME066
Question: Are the media allowed to project/predict winners before the final results are available?
Answer:
a . Yes
Comments:
Source: Elections Canada (www.elections.ca)
Verified: 2006/12/11
ME067
Question: What resources does the EMB have for its work with the media?
Answer(s):
a . A media department b . A press officer
Comments:
Source: Elections Canada (www.elections.ca)
Verified: 2006/12/11
ME068
Question: Have staff responsible for media relations received training for this work?
Answer:
a . Yes
Comments:
Source: Elections Canada (www.elections.ca)
Verified: 2006/12/11
ME069
Question: Which of the following has the EMB produced or organised?
Answer(s):
a . Media packs/press kits b . Press releases c . Press conferences/briefings d . Pre-recorded radio or TV slots e . Web site g . Other (specify)
Comments:
Source: Elections Canada (www.elections.ca)
Verified: 2006/12/11
ME070
Question: Has the EMB provided or facilitated training for journalists in how the electoral process works?
Answer:
b . No
Comments:
Source: Elections Canada (www.elections.ca)
Verified: 2006/12/11
ME071
Question: Which of the following types of radio stations, provide free broadcast time to the EMB for voter information campaigns?
Answer(s):
e . None
Comments: No free broadcasting time is made available to the Officer of the Chief Electoral Officer.
Source: Elections Canada (www.elections.ca)
Verified: 2006/12/11
ME072
Question: Which of the following television stations provide free broadcast time to the EMB for voter information campaigns?
Answer(s):
e . None
Comments: No free broadcasting time is made available to the Officer of the Chief Electoral Officer.
Source: Elections Canada (www.elections.ca)
Verified: 2006/12/11
ME073
Question: Which of the following daily and weekly newspapers provide free print space to the EMB for voter information campaigns?
Answer(s):
e . None
Comments: No free broadcasting time is made available to the Officer of the Chief Electoral Officer.
Source: Elections Canada (www.elections.ca)
Verified: 2006/12/11
ME074
Question: Which of the following types of radio stations provide paid broadcast time to the EMB for voter information campaigns?
Answer(s):
a . Publicly owned c . Privately owned
Comments:
Source: Elections Canada (www.elections.ca)
Verified: 2006/12/11
ME075
Question: Which of the following types of television stations provide paid broadcast time to the EMB for voter information campaigns?
Answer(s):
a . Publicly owned c . Privately owned
Comments:
Source: Elections Canada (www.elections.ca)
Verified: 2006/12/11
ME076
Question: Which of the following types of daily and weekly newspapers provide paid broadcast time or print space to the EMB for voter information campaigns?
Answer(s):
c . Privately owned
Comments:
Source: Elections Canada (www.elections.ca)
Verified: 2006/12/11
ME077
Question: What steps does the EMB take to make sure that it is communicating its message to the media?
Answer(s):
a . It consults the media about the usefulness of materials provided to them by the EMB. b . It consults the media about the usefulness of the EMB's website. c . It encourages the media to subscribe to a media page in the EMB's website in order to receive regular updates. d . It monitors the media coverage of its own activities.
Comments:
Source: Elections Canada (www.elections.ca)
Verified: 2006/12/11
ME079
Question: Overall, how effective do you judge the EMB's ability to communicate through the media during election campaigns to be?
Answer:
a . Very effective
Comments:
Source: Elections Canada
Verified: 2006/12/11
ME080
Question: Is there a maximum amount that a political party is permitted to spend on paid advertising during a campaign period?
Answer:
c . No information available
Comments: Electoral law addresses overall campaign expenditure.
Source: Elections Canada: Backgrounders: Financing of Registered Political Parties – New Rules on January 1, 2004 (http://www.elections.ca/content.asp?section=gen&document=ec90532&dir=bkg&lang=e&textonly=false)
Verified: 2025/03/28
Direct Democracy
DD001
Please provide information about the person completing the questionnaire.
Name and Title: Alain Pelletier
Job Title: Assistant Director, Corporate and Parliamentary Research
Organisation: Elections Canada
Contact Address. 257 Slater Street, Ottawa, Ontario, K1A 0M6 Canada
Telephone: (613) 993-6516, 1-800-267-7360
Facsimile: (613) 993-4087
Email: [email protected] , [email protected]
Source
No Source
Verified
2009/08/31
DD002
Direct Democracy Provisions (National Level)
Question: Are there any Legal Provisions for Direct Democracy Procedures at the national level?
Answer:
a . Yes
Comments: The Referendum Act (1992) governs the use of referenda placed to citizens. Referenda may be called by the Governor in Council:
Where the Governor in Council considers that it is in the public interest to obtain by means of a referendum the opinion of electors on any question relating to the Constitution of Canada, the Governor in Council may, by proclamation, direct that the opinion of electors be obtained by putting the question to the electors of Canada or of one or more provinces specified in the proclamation at a referendum called for that purpose.
Source: International Idea (2008):"Direct Democracy: The International IDEA Handbook", (http://www.idea.int/publications/direct_democracy/index.cfm).
Referendum Act (1992)
http://laws-lois.justice.gc.ca/PDF/R-4.7.pdf
Verified: 2025/03/28
DD003
Mandatory referendums (national level)
Question: Are there any Legal Provisions for Mandatory Referendums at the national level?
Answer:
b . No
Comments:
Source: International Idea (2008):"Direct Democracy: The International IDEA Handbook", (http://www.idea.int/publications/direct_democracy/index.cfm).
Verified: 2025/03/28
DD004
Optional referendums (national level)
Question: Are there any Legal Provisions for Optional Referendums at the national level?
Answer:
a . Yes
Comments: b) Referendum Act; Canada Elections Act as Adapted for the purposes of a Referendum.
Source: International Idea (2008):"Direct Democracy: The International IDEA Handbook", (http://www.idea.int/publications/direct_democracy/index.cfm).
Verified: 2025/03/28
DD005
Citizens' Initiatives (national level)
Question: Are there any Legal Provisions for Citizen’s Initiatives at national level?
Answer:
b . No
Comments:
Source: International Idea (2008):"Direct Democracy: The International IDEA Handbook", (http://www.idea.int/publications/direct_democracy/index.cfm).
Verified: 2025/03/28
DD006
Agenda Initiatives (national level)
Question: Are there any Legal Provisions for Agenda Initiatives at national level?
Answer:
b . No
Comments:
Source: International Idea (2008):"Direct Democracy: The International IDEA Handbook", (http://www.idea.int/publications/direct_democracy/index.cfm).
Verified: 2025/03/28
DD007
Question: Are there any Legal Provisions for Recalls at national level?
Answer:
b . No
Comments:
Source: International Idea (2008):"Direct Democracy: The International IDEA Handbook", (http://www.idea.int/publications/direct_democracy/index.cfm).
Verified: 2025/03/28
DD008
Question: What is the legal basis for the administrative requirements for mandatory referendums at the national level? Tick as appropriate and specify the relevant constitutional, legal or regulatory provisions below.
Answer(s):
e . Not applicable
Comments:
Source:
Verified: 2006/11/27
DD009
Question: What is the legal basis for the administrative requirements for optional referendums at the national level? Tick as appropriate and specify the relevant constitutional, legal or regulatory provisions below.
Answer(s):
b . Specific laws/legislation c . Regulations
Comments: b) Referendum Act; Canada Elections Act as Adapted for the purposes of a Referendum.
Source:
Verified: 2006/12/10
DD010
Question: What is the legal basis for the administrative requirements for citizens' initiatives at the national level? Tick as appropriate and specify the relevant constitutional, legal or regulatory provisions below.
Answer(s):
e . Not applicable
Comments:
Source:
Verified: 2006/11/27
DD100
Question: What restrictions, if any, are there in relation to signature collection for an agenda initiative?
Answer(s):
f . Not applicable
Comments:
Source:
Verified: 2006/12/10
DD101
Question: What restrictions, if any, are there in relation to signature collection for a recall?
Answer(s):
f . Not applicable
Comments:
Source:
Verified: 2006/12/10
DD102
Question: What form of checks are undertaken to verify signatures for a referendum?
Answer:
d . Not applicable
Comments:
Source:
Verified: 2006/12/10
DD103
Question: What form of checks are undertaken to verify signatures for a citizens' initiative?
Answer(s):
d . Not applicable
Comments:
Source:
Verified: 2006/12/10
DD104
Question: What form of checks are undertaken to verify signatures for a recall?
Answer:
d . Not applicable
Comments:
Source:
Verified: 2006/12/10
DD105
Question: Who is responsible for checking the signatures?
Answer(s):
e . Not applicable
Comments:
Source:
Verified: 2006/12/10
DD106
Question: Which organisation(s), if any, is responsible for running non-partisan information or voter education campaigns to inform voters about the issue being addressed in a referendum?
Answer(s):
a . Agency/department responsible for the administration of direct democracy mechanisms
Comments: a) The Chief Electoral Officer of Canada, who is an Officer of Parliament and independent from the government, is responsible for that matter.
Source:
Verified: 2006/12/10
DD107
Question: Which organisation(s), if any, is responsible for running non-partisan information or voter education campaigns to inform voters about the issue being addressed in an initiative?
Answer(s):
g . Not applicable
Comments:
Source:
Verified: 2006/12/10
DD108
Question: Which organisation(s), if any, is responsible for running non-partisan information or voter education campaigns to inform voters about the issue being addressed in a recall?
Answer(s):
g . Not applicable
Comments:
Source:
Verified: 2006/12/10
DD109
Question: What activities, if any, are undertaken as part of non-partisan information or voter education campaigns for a referendum?
Answer(s):
a . Information booklets b . Leaflets and pamphlets c . Radio broadcasts d . TV broadcasts e . Press advertisements f . Website g . Other(specify)
Comments: g) According to s. 31 of the Referendum Act, The Chief Electoral Officer may implement public education and information programs to make the referendum process better known to the public, particularly to those persons and groups most likely to experience difficulties in exercising their democratic rights. In practice, information and education material are made available on various supports and formats, including in multiple non-official languages, TTY and regular free phone services, on an interactive Web site, though voting templates and the availability of interpreters for people with various disabilities. Pursuant to s. 3(5) of the Referendum Act, the Chief Electoral Officer shall ensure that the text of a referendum question is available in such aboriginal languages and in such places in those languages, as the Chief Electoral Officer, after consultation with representatives of aboriginal groups, may determine.
Source:
Verified: 2006/12/10
DD011
Question: What is the legal basis for the administrative requirements for agenda initiatives at the national level? Tick as appropriate and specify the relevant constitutional, legal or regulatory provisions below.
Answer(s):
e . Not applicable
Comments:
Source:
Verified: 2006/11/27
DD110
Question: What activities, if any, are undertaken as part of non-partisan information or voter education campaigns for an initiative?
Answer(s):
i . Not applicable
Comments:
Source:
Verified: 2006/12/10
DD111
Question: What activities, if any, are undertaken as part of non-partisan information or voter education campaigns for a recall?
Answer(s):
i . Not applicable
Comments:
Source:
Verified: 2006/12/10
DD112
Question: Which of the following controls, if any, apply in relation to campaigning for or against the issue being addressed in a referendum?
Answer(s):
a . Compulsory registration of campaigners and campaign groups b . Expenditure limits d . Restrictions on the sources of contributions e . Disclosure requirements
Comments: According to s. 15(1) of the Referendum Act, any person who, or group that, intends to incur referendum expenses over $5,000 must register with the Chief Electoral Officer of Canada to obtain the status of registered referendum committee. This entails the right to certain financial advantages, including access to free broadcasting time, and obligations in terms of disclosure and limits on referendum expenses.
Source:
Verified: 2006/12/10
DD113
Question: Which of the following controls, if any, apply in relation to campaigning for or against the issue being addressed in an initiative?
Answer(s):
h . Not applicable
Comments:
Source:
Verified: 2006/12/10
DD114
Question: Which of the following controls, if any, apply in relation to campaigning for or against the issue being addressed in a recall?
Answer(s):
h . Not applicable
Comments:
Source:
Verified: 2006/12/10
DD115
Question: What is the period during which these controls apply for a referendum?
Answer:
a . Fixed time period (specify)
Comments: a) Controls apply during the referendum period s. 2 of the Referendum Act defines the referendum period as starting the day the text of the referendum question is approved and ending on referendum day.
Source: The Referendum Act of Canada
Verified: 2006/12/10
DD116
Question: What is the period during which these controls apply for an initiative?
Answer:
c . Not applicable
Comments:
Source:
Verified: 2006/12/10
DD117
Question: What is the period during which these controls apply for a recall?
Answer:
c . Not applicable
Comments:
Source:
Verified: 2006/12/10
DD118
Question: Which campaigners, if any, are entitled to some forms of public assistance for a referendum? Specify in the "Comments" section below.
Answer(s):
c . All campaign organisations
Comments: According to s. 15(1) of the Referendum Act, any person who, or group that, intends to incur referendum expenses over $5,000 must register with the Chief Electoral Officer of Canada to obtain the status of registered referendum committee. This entails the right to free broadcasting time.
Source: The Referendum Act of Canada
Verified: 2006/12/10
DD119
Question: Which campaigners, if any, are entitled to some forms of public assistance for an initiative? Specify in the "Comments" section below.
Answer(s):
f . Not applicable
Comments:
Source:
Verified: 2006/12/10
DD012
Question: What is the legal basis for the administrative requirements for recalls at the national level? Tick as appropriate and specify the relevant constitutional, legal or regulatory provisions below.
Answer(s):
e . Not applicable
Comments:
Source:
Verified: 2006/11/27
DD120
Question: Which campaigners, if any, are entitled to some forms of public assistance for a recall? Specify in the "Comments" section below.
Answer(s):
f . Not applicable
Comments:
Source:
Verified: 2006/12/10
DD121
Question: Which forms of public assistance, if any, are provided for a referendum? Specify in the "Comments" section below.
Answer(s):
b . Free media access
Comments:
Source:
Verified: 2006/12/10
DD122
Question: Which forms of public assistance, if any, are provided for an initiative? Specify in the "Comments" section below.
Answer(s):
g . Not applicable
Comments:
Source:
Verified: 2006/12/10
DD123
Question: Which forms of public assistance, if any, are provided for a recall? Specify in the "Comments" section below.
Answer(s):
g . Not applicable
Comments:
Source:
Verified: 2006/12/10
DD125
Question: Is the government permitted to campaign either in favour of or against any specific outcome to a referendum, initiatives or recall vote?
Answer(s):
a . Yes
Comments:
Source:
Verified: 2006/12/10
DD015
Question: Who is responsible for managing the administration of direct democracy mechanisms at the national level?
Answer(s):
b . Independent electoral commission
Comments: b) The Chief Electoral Officer of Canada.
Source:
Verified: 2006/12/10
DD016
Question: Does this agency/department also manage the administration of national elections?
Answer:
a . Yes
Comments:
Source:
Verified: 2006/12/10
DD017
Question: Are mandatory referendums currently possible at first tier (regions/states/provinces, etc) authority level?
Answer:
b . Yes, in some regions/states/provinces
Comments: b) Referenda at the provincial and territorial level are conducted under respective provincial and territorial legislation. For further information, please see The Compendium of Election Administration in Canada at www.elections.ca.
Source:
Verified: 2006/12/10
DD018
Question: Are optional referendums currently possible at first tier (regions/states/provinces, etc) authority level?
Answer:
b . Yes, in some regions/states/provinces
Comments: b) Referenda at the provincial and territorial level are conducted under respective provincial and territorial legislation. For further information, please see The Compendium of Election Administration in Canada at www.elections.ca.
Source:
Verified: 2006/12/10
DD019
Question: Are citizens' initiatives currently possible at first tier (regions/states/provinces, etc) authority level?
Answer:
b . Yes, in some regions/states/provinces
Comments: b) Only British Columbia has legal provisions for recalls and citizens’ initiatives. Referenda at the provincial and territorial level are conducted under respective provincial and territorial legislation. For further information, please see The Compendium of Election Administration in Canada at www.elections.ca.
Source:
Verified: 2006/12/10
DD020
Question: Are agenda initiatives currently possible at first tier (regions/states/provinces, etc) authority level?
Answer:
c . No
Comments: c) For further information, please see The Compendium of Election Administration in Canada at www.elections.ca.
Source:
Verified: 2006/12/10
DD021
Question: Are recalls currently possible at first tier (regions/states/provinces, etc) authority level?
Answer:
b . Yes, in some regions/states/provinces
Comments: b) Only British Columbia has legal provisions for recalls and citizens’ initiatives. Referenda at the provincial and territorial level are conducted under respective provincial and territorial legislation. For further information, please see The Compendium of Election Administration in Canada at www.elections.ca.
Source:
Verified: 2006/12/10
DD022
Question: Are mandatory referendums currently possible at local (municipalities/districts/communes, etc) authority level?
Answer:
b . Yes, in some municipalities/districts/communes
Comments:
Source:
Verified: 2006/12/10
DD023
Question: Are optional referendums currently possible at local (municipalities/districts/communes, etc) authority level?
Answer:
b . Yes, in some municipalities/districts/communes
Comments:
Source:
Verified: 2006/12/10
DD024
Question: Are citizens' initiatives currently possible at local (municipalities/districts/communes, etc) authority level?
Answer:
c . No
Comments:
Source:
Verified: 2006/11/27
DD025
Question: Are agenda initiatives currently possible at local (municipalities/districts/communes, etc) authority level?
Answer:
c . No
Comments:
Source:
Verified: 2006/11/27
DD026
Question: Are recalls currently possible at local (municipalities/districts/communes, etc) authority level?
Answer:
c . No
Comments:
Source:
Verified: 2006/12/10
DD027
Question: What are the issues, if any, in relation to which referendums are mandatory at the national level?
Answer(s):
l . Not applicable
Comments:
Source:
Verified: 2006/11/27
DD028
Question: What are the issues, if any, in relation to which referendums are optional at the national level?
Answer(s):
a . Constitutional amendments
Comments: a) Federal referenda may only be held on issues that deal with the Constitution of Canada as provided by s. 3 of the Referendum Act. This, however, does not preclude Parliament from passing legislation to have a referendum on any other issue.
Source: The Referendum Act of Canada
Verified: 2006/12/10
DD029
Question: Which issues, if any, are excluded from being the subject of referendums at the national level?
Answer(s):
b . Adoption of international treaties c . Transfer of authority to international bodies d . National sovereignty, national self-determination e . Conflict between constitutional organs f . Devolution g . Civil service h . Taxes and public expenditure commitments i . Other public policy issues j . Other (specify)
Comments: j) Referendums may only concern constitutional amendments; all other matters excluded. As provided by s. 3 of the Referendum Act. This, however, does not preclude Parliament from passing legislation to have a referendum on any other issue.
Source: The Referendum Act of Canada
Verified: 2006/12/10
DD030
Question: Which issues, if any, maybe the subject of sub-national referendums regulated at the national level?
Answer(s):
e . None
Comments:
Source:
Verified: 2006/12/10
DD031
Question: Who can initiate a referendum at the national level?
Answer(s):
a . Government
Comments: a) The Governor in Council may proclaim that a referendum be held in one or more provinces or territories if it considers that it is in the public interest to obtain by means of a referendum the opinion of electors on any question relating to the Constitution of Canada (s. 3(1) of the Referendum Act).
Source: The Referendum Act of Canada
Verified: 2006/12/10
DD032
Question: Who is responsible for drafting the mandatory referendum question?
Answer(s):
g . Not applicable
Comments:
Source:
Verified: 2006/11/27
DD033
Question: Who is responsible for drafting the optional referendum question?
Answer(s):
a . Government (specify department)
Comments: a) A member of the Queen’s Privy Council for Canada may give notice of a motion for the approval of the text of a referendum question, which has to be submitted for approval to the Leader of the Opposition and the leader of each political party having a recognized membership of twelve or more persons in the House of Commons. The question must be submitted to the House of Commons and the Senate for approval. (ss. 5(1)-(8) of the Referendum Act).
Source: The Referendum Act of Canada
Verified: 2006/12/10
DD034
Question: Which of the following, if any, are required to be included in the mandatory referendum question?
Answer(s):
f . Not applicable
Comments:
Source:
Verified: 2006/11/27
DD035
Question: Which of the following, if any, are required to be included in the optional referendum question?
Answer(s):
e . Other (specify)
Comments: e) A referendum question must be worded so that electors may express their opinion by "yes" or "no" (s. 3(3) of the Referendum Act). The referendum question must deal with a constitutional matter in keeping with s. 3(1) of the Referendum Act).
Source: The Referendum Act
Verified: 2006/12/10
DD036
Question: Which institution(s) decides on the final form of the ballot text for mandatory referendums?
Answer(s):
f . Not applicable
Comments:
Source:
Verified: 2006/11/27
DD037
Question: Which institution(s) decides on the final form of the ballot text for optional referendums?
Answer(s):
d . Legislature
Comments: d) A member of the Queen’s Privy Council for Canada may give notice of a motion for the approval of the text of a referendum question, which has to be submitted for approval to the Leader of the Opposition and the leader of each political party having a recognized membership of twelve or more persons in the House of Commons. The question must be submitted to the House of Commons and the Senate for approval.
Source: The Referendum Act of Canada
Verified: 2006/12/10
DD040
Question: What are the requirements for mandatory referendums to pass?
Answer(s):
e . Not applicable
Comments:
Source:
Verified: 2006/11/27
DD041
Question: What are the requirements for optional referendums to pass?
Answer(s):
a . Simple majority (>50%)
Comments:
Source:
Verified: 2006/12/10
DD042
Question: In which areas, if any, do regulatory provisions differ between a referendum and a national election? Tick all that apply and specify below in the comments section.
Answer(s):
g . None
Comments:
Source:
Verified: 2006/12/10
DD043
Question: When is the outcome of a mandatory referendum binding?
Answer:
d . Not applicable
Comments:
Source:
Verified: 2006/11/27
DD044
Question: When is the outcome of an optional referendum binding?
Answer:
c . Never
Comments:
Source:
Verified: 2006/12/10
DD045
Question: Which types of issues can be proposed by citizens using the citizens' initiative process at the national level?
Answer(s):
d . Not applicable
Comments:
Source:
Verified: 2006/11/27
DD046
Question: Which types of issues can be proposed by citizens using the agenda initiative process at the national level?
Answer(s):
d . Not applicable
Comments:
Source:
Verified: 2006/11/27
DD047
Question: Which issues, if any, are excluded from being the subject of a citizens' initiative at the national level?
Answer(s):
l . Not applicable
Comments:
Source:
Verified: 2006/11/27
DD048
Question: Which issues, if any, are excluded from being the subject of an agenda initiative at the national level?
Answer(s):
l . Not applicable
Comments:
Source:
Verified: 2006/11/27
DD049
Question: Who may propose the registration of a citizens' initiative? Please specify in the "Comments" section below.
Answer(s):
d . Not applicable
Comments:
Source:
Verified: 2006/12/10
DD050
Question: Who may propose the registration of an agenda initiative? Please specify in the "Comments" section below.
Answer(s):
d . Not applicable
Comments:
Source:
Verified: 2006/12/10
DD051
Question: What material is necessary to accompany an application for registration?
Answer(s):
e . Not applicable
Comments:
Source:
Verified: 2006/12/10
DD052
Question: Who determines the title of a citizens' initiative?
Answer(s):
f . Not applicable
Comments:
Source:
Verified: 2006/12/10
DD053
Question: Who determines the title of an agenda initiative?
Answer:
f . Not applicable
Comments:
Source:
Verified: 2006/12/10
DD054
Question: Which, if any, of the following disqualify a proposed title of an initiative?
Answer(s):
h . Not applicable
Comments:
Source:
Verified: 2006/12/10
DD055
Question: Which services are provided by the agency/department responsible for the administration of direct democracy mechanisms before an initiative can be published?
Answer(s):
f . Not applicable
Comments:
Source:
Verified: 2006/12/10
DD056
Question: Under what circumstances is an initiative checked for constitutionality or legality?
Answer(s):
d . Not applicable
Comments:
Source:
Verified: 2006/12/10
DD057
Question: If a check of the constitutionality or legality of an initiative takes place, who is responsible for undertaking it?
Answer(s):
f . Other (specify)
Comments:
Source:
Verified: 2006/12/10
DD058
Question: If a check of the constitutionality or legality of an initiative takes place, when does this happen?
Answer(s):
f . Not applicable
Comments:
Source:
Verified: 2006/12/10
DD059
Question: Which institutions, if any, are given an opportunity to propose an alternative to proposals contained in a citizens' initiative?
Answer(s):
g . Not applicable
Comments:
Source:
Verified: 2006/12/10
DD060
Question: At which stage in the initiative process, if at all, can alternative proposals be made?
Answer(s):
e . Not applicable
Comments:
Source:
Verified: 2006/12/10
DD061
Question: What happens when there is a valid alternative proposal?
Answer:
e . Not applicable
Comments:
Source:
Verified: 2006/12/10
DD062
Question: When an initiative proposal and an alternative proposal are put to the vote on the same day, what choices does the voter have?
Answer(s):
f . Not applicable
Comments:
Source:
Verified: 2006/12/10
DD063
Question: Who decides the final ballot text?
Answer(s):
f . Not applicable
Comments:
Source:
Verified: 2006/12/10
DD064
Question: Once an initiative is qualified for the ballot, the vote on it takes place:
Answer:
d . Not applicable
Comments:
Source:
Verified: 2006/12/10
DD065
Question: Which of the following individuals/positions may be subject to the recall mechanism?
Answer(s):
k . Not applicable
Comments:
Source:
Verified: 2006/12/10
DD066
Question: What are the grounds upon which a recall may be launched?
Answer(s):
g . Not applicable
Comments:
Source:
Verified: 2006/12/10
DD068
Question: If a recall qualifies for the ballot, when is it put to the vote?
Answer:
d . Not applicable
Comments:
Source:
Verified: 2006/12/10
DD069
Question: When does the election to replace an individual who has been recalled take place?
Answer:
c . Not applicable
Comments:
Source:
Verified: 2006/12/10
DD071
Question: Can an individual who is the subject of a recall stand on the ballot for his/her own replacement?
Answer:
c . Not applicable
Comments:
Source:
Verified: 2006/12/10
DD076
Question: What is the deadline, if any, for collecting the required number of signatures after a proposal for an abrogative referendum (optional) has been published?
Answer:
c . Not applicable
Comments:
Source:
Verified: 2006/12/10
DD077
Question: What is the deadline, if any, for collecting the required number of signatures after a proposal for a rejective referendum (optional) has been published?
Answer:
c . Not applicable
Comments:
Source:
Verified: 2006/12/10
DD078
Question: What is the deadline, if any, for collecting the required number of signatures after a proposal for a citizens' initiative has been published?
Answer:
c . Not applicable
Comments:
Source:
Verified: 2006/12/10
DD079
Question: What is the deadline, if any, for collecting the required number of signatures after a proposal for an agenda initiative has been published?
Answer:
c . Not applicable
Comments:
Source:
Verified: 2006/12/10
DD080
Question: What restrictions, if any, apply in relation to the individuals who can sign the proposal for an abrogative referendum (optional)?
Answer(s):
e . Not applicable
Comments:
Source:
Verified: 2006/12/10
DD081
Question: What restrictions, if any, apply in relation to the individuals who can sign the proposal for a rejective referendum (optional)?
Answer(s):
e . Not applicable
Comments:
Source:
Verified: 2006/12/10
DD082
Question: What restrictions, if any, apply in relation to the individuals who can sign the proposal for a citizens' initiative?
Answer(s):
e . Not applicable
Comments:
Source:
Verified: 2006/12/10
DD083
Question: What restrictions, if any, apply in relation to the individuals who can sign the proposal for an agenda initiative?
Answer(s):
e . Not applicable
Comments:
Source:
Verified: 2006/12/10
DD085
Question: What is the deadline, if any, for collecting the required number of signatures after a proposal for recall has been published?
Answer:
c . Not applicable
Comments:
Source:
Verified: 2006/12/10
DD086
Question: What restrictions, if any, apply in relation to the individuals who can sign the proposal for a recall?
Answer(s):
e . Not applicable
Comments:
Source:
Verified: 2006/12/10
DD087
Question: Where can proposals for an abrogative referendum (optional) be signed?
Answer(s):
g . Not applicable
Comments:
Source:
Verified: 2006/12/10
DD088
Question: Where can proposals for a rejective referendum (optional) be signed?
Answer(s):
g . Not applicable
Comments:
Source:
Verified: 2006/12/10
DD089
Question: Where can proposals for a citizens' initiative be signed?
Answer(s):
g . Not applicable
Comments:
Source:
Verified: 2006/12/10
DD090
Question: Where can proposals for an agenda initiative be signed?
Answer(s):
g . Not applicable
Comments:
Source:
Verified: 2006/12/10
DD091
Question: Where can proposals for a recall be signed?
Answer(s):
g . Not applicable
Comments:
Source:
Verified: 2006/12/10
DD092
Question: What information must signatories provide when signing the proposal for an abrogative referendum (optional)?
Answer(s):
e . Not applicable
Comments:
Source:
Verified: 2006/12/10
DD093
Question: What information must signatories provide when signing the proposal for a rejective referendum (optional)?
Answer(s):
e . Not applicable
Comments:
Source:
Verified: 2006/12/10
DD094
Question: What information must signatories provide when signing the proposal for a citizens' initiative?
Answer(s):
e . Not applicable
Comments:
Source:
Verified: 2006/12/10
DD095
Question: What information must signatories provide when signing the proposal for an agenda initiative?
Answer(s):
e . Not applicable
Comments:
Source:
Verified: 2006/12/10
DD096
Question: What information must signatories provide when signing the proposal for a recall?
Answer(s):
e . Not applicable
Comments:
Source:
Verified: 2006/12/10
DD097
Question: What restrictions, if any, are there in relation to signature collection for an abrogative referendum (optional)?
Answer(s):
f . Not applicable
Comments:
Source:
Verified: 2006/12/10
DD098
Question: What restrictions, if any, are there in relation to signature collection for a rejective referendum (optional)?
Answer(s):
f . Not applicable
Comments:
Source:
Verified: 2006/12/10
DD099
Question: What restrictions, if any, are there in relation to signature collection for a citizens' initiative?
Answer(s):
f . Not applicable
Comments:
Source:
Verified: 2006/12/10
DD129
Question: Are the results of referenda always binding, never binding or sometimes binding?
Answer:
c . Never binding
Comments:
Source: International Idea (2008):"Direct Democracy: The International IDEA Handbook", (http://www.idea.int/publications/direct_democracy/index.cfm).
Verified: 2025/03/28
DD130
Question: Are the types of issues to vote upon in a referendum constitutional changes only, other issues only or both constitutional and other issues?
Answer:
c . Both constitutional and other issues
Comments:
Source: International Idea (2008):"Direct Democracy: The International IDEA Handbook", (http://www.idea.int/publications/direct_democracy/index.cfm).
Verified: 2025/03/28
DD131
Question: Are there any Legal Provisions for Direct Democracy at sub-national levels (regional or local)?
Answer:
a . Yes
Comments:
Source: International Idea (2008):"Direct Democracy: The International IDEA Handbook", (http://www.idea.int/publications/direct_democracy/index.cfm).
Verified: 2025/03/28
DD132
Year of introducing Direct Democracy
Question: What year were the first Direct Democracy mechanisms introduced to the legal framework?
Answer:
f . 1981-2000
Comments: 1992, adoption of referendum act.
Source: "Direct Democracy: The International IDEA Handbook", (2008) (http://www.idea.int/publications/direct_democracy/index.cfm).
Verified: 2009/08/31
DD133
Question: What year was the first referendum/initiative held?
Answer:
a . <1901
Comments: 1898
Source:
Verified: 2009/08/31
Voting Operations
VO001
Question: Approximately what percentage (on the basis of cost) of election day supplies and equipment are obtained or produced within the country?
Answer:
a . 91-100%
Comments: 100% of election supplies are bought from Canadian suppliers.
Source: Elections Canada
Verified: 2006/12/11
VO002
Question: Is there a code of conduct for election officials?
Answer:
a . Yes
Comments: Code of Professional Conduct for Returning Officers.
Source: Elections Canada
Verified: 2006/12/11
VO003
Electors vote at
Question: Where can electors vote?
Answer(s):
a . At a specified polling station in the locality where they are registered at national elections d . At specially designated polling stations e . At mobile polling stations f . By mail
Comments: Currently, electors can vote at the advance polls (3 days) and at a polling station on election day. In addition, the Special Voting Rules provisions of the Canada Elections Act provide specific provisions for voting by using a special mail-in ballot. Any elector can request to vote by mail, a system that is systematically used for electors voting from abroad. Electors can also vote using the Special Voting Rules provisions by visiting the office of the returning officer in their electoral district, at any time during a campaign up to the end of the sixth day preceding the election.
Source: "Voting from Abroad: The International IDEA Handbook", (2007) (http://www.idea.int/publications/voting_from_abroad/upload/Voting_from_abroad.pdf)
The Canada Elections Act (2015), Part 9 (Voting), Part 10 (Advance Polling) & Part 11
http://laws.justice.gc.ca/PDF/E-2.01.pdf
Verified: 2025/03/28
VO004
Voting outside the country is permitted for
Question: Who can vote from outside the country?
Answer(s):
b . Citizens residing outside the country c . Citizens outside the country (including those on vacation) d . Members of the armed forces e . Students f . Diplomatic staff
Comments: Any eligible voter who is travelling or residing outside the country during an election may vote by special mail-in ballot under the Special Voting Rules, as long as his or her absence from the country does not exceed five consecutive years. The ballots may be delivered to a Canadian mission in time for delivery to Elections Canada by 6:00 p.m. polling day, or sent directly to Elections Canada in Ottawa for 6:00 p.m. polling day.
Source: "Voting from Abroad: The International IDEA Handbook", (2007) (http://www.idea.int/publications/voting_from_abroad/upload/Voting_from_abroad.pdf)
The Canada Elections Act, Part 9 (Voting), Part 10 (Advance Polling) & Part 11
http://laws.justice.gc.ca/PDF/E-2.01.pdf
Verified: 2025/03/28
VO005
Locations for voting outside of the country
Question: If voting outside the country is permitted, at what places?
Answer(s):
a . Embassies b . Consulates e . By mail f . Other
Comments: Voting kits may be ordered from, and delivered to embassies, consulates and high missions or to any other address provided, and returned from any location around the world, as long as they reach Elections Canada’s headquarters in Ottawa by 6:00 p.m. on election day.
Source: "Voting from Abroad: The International IDEA Handbook", (2007) (http://www.idea.int/publications/voting_from_abroad/upload/Voting_from_abroad.pdf)
Electoral Law: Canada Elections Act, Part 9 (Voting)& Part 11
http://laws.justice.gc.ca/PDF/E-2.01.pdf
Verified: 2025/03/28
VO006
Question: Can people vote in advance of the designated national election day(s)?
Answer:
b . Yes
Comments: Advance polls must be open between the hours of 12 p.m. and 8 p.m. of Friday, Saturday, and Monday, the tenth, ninth, and seventh days before the ordinary polling day, and must not be open at any other time. Electors, such as members of the military or the incarcerated, who applied for a special ballot, may vote by mail via the Special Voting Rules. Mobile polls are set up in institutions with people with reduced mobility.
Source: Electoral Law: Canada Elections Act, Part 10
Verified: 2010/06/18
VO007
Question: If electors can vote in advance of the designated national election day(s), how may they do so?
Answer(s):
a . At special advance polling centers b . By mail d . At mobile polling stations
Comments: Advance polls must be open between the hours of 12 p.m. and 8 p.m. of Friday, Saturday, and Monday, the tenth, ninth, and seventh days before the ordinary polling day, and must not be open at any other time. Electors, such as members of the military or the incarcerated, who applied for a special ballot, may vote by mail via the Special Voting Rules. Mobile polls are set up in institutions with people with reduced mobility.
Source: Electoral Law: Canada Elections Act, Part 10
Verified: 2010/06/18
VO008
Question: If electors can vote in advance of the designated national election day(s), specify who:
Answer(s):
a . Everyone
Comments: There are no restrictions on who can vote by the various voting methods available.
Source: Elections Canada
Verified: 2010/06/18
VO009
Question: Is there a maximum allowable voter capacity of a polling station for the national elections?
Answer:
a . Yes
Comments: In establishing the limits of polling divisions, one of the criteria is to provide voting facilities for 450 electors on average. There is a minimum requirement of 250 electors per polling division.
Source: Elections Canada
Verified: 2006/12/11
VO011
Voting method
Question: How do electors cast their votes?
Answer(s):
a . Manually marking of ballots
Comments: Two types of paper ballots are used: the regular one used on polling day lists the candidates and their affiliation) and the Special ballot (on which electors need to write the name of the candidate they vote for) used for the purpose of the Special Voting Rules.
Source: Elections Canada: Glossary (http://www.elections.ca/content.asp?section=gen&document=index&dir=glo&lang=e&anchor=b&textonly=false#b)
The Canada Elections Act, Part 8 Art. 115
http://laws.justice.gc.ca/PDF/E-2.01.pdf
Verified: 2025/03/28
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