Is the voting process worth the expense?
Residents residing outside of Newfoundland and Labrador are grappling with this query as they face the necessity of paying for postal services to cast their votes in the forthcoming provincial election.
Voters who opt for mailing their ballots are required to cover the shipping charges, which could amount to a minimum of $34, amid the ongoing strike by Canada Post.
Expressing her uncertainty, Maria O’Neill, currently studying in Antigonish, N.S., stated, “I’m unsure if it’s justified at this moment.”
At the age of 21, O’Neill is gearing up for her first participation in a provincial election.
She remarked, “I believe no one should have to pay for their vote, especially not the exorbitant fees associated with using services like FedEx, UPS, or Purolator.”
In an investigation by CBC News, it was found that the least expensive rates for courier services from Antigonish to St. John’s vary between approximately $34 and over $100, depending on the service speed and provider.
Typically, individuals looking to vote via mail can request a special ballot, which is dispatched with a prepaid envelope for return mailing.
However, the ongoing postal strike by the Canadian Union of Postal Workers has rendered it impossible for voters to use Canada Post to mail their ballots.
O’Neill disclosed that Elections N.L. contacted her to inquire whether she would be returning to Newfoundland for Thanksgiving or if she could find someone to deliver her ballot on her behalf.
If not, she would have to bear the expenses herself.
Expressing her frustration, O’Neill stated, “I feel quite powerless.”
Daniel Fuchs, who is studying in Montreal, expressed his desire to participate in the provincial election despite the challenges.
He mentioned, “If it costs $50, I probably won’t proceed with it just to cast my vote.”
Fuchs shared that Elections N.L. suggested finding fellow students to split the mailing costs for their ballots, but this was not a viable option for him.
Expressing his disappointment, Fuchs remarked, “It seems reasonable for Elections N.L. to cover these expenses, although I understand it’s costly.”
Fuchs noted that he had a friend willing to deliver his vote to Newfoundland; however, he did not receive his ballot from Elections N.L. in time.
Deadline for Returning Vote-by-Mail Kits is Oct. 11
CBC News reached out to Elections N.L. regarding the mail-in voting process, but the organization declined interview requests.
“If you have chosen an alternative delivery service for your vote-by-mail kit, you are responsible for returning it to Elections N.L. by the specified deadlines,” as stated on their website.
“You have the option to return the kit to any of the 70+ offices or choose a delivery service of your preference. You may also contact the nearest office to arrange a pickup if available.”
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