Elections Canada Defends New Voter ID Rules

Elections Canada Defends New Voter ID Rules

Wednesday, March 19, 2008 at 16:38

While a new voter identification system in the recent by-election in northern Saskatchewan apparently caused some people troubles at the polls, Elections Canada is saying the system was mostly well-received.

Under the new system, voters had to produce at least one piece of I.D. with their name and address.

The candidates representing the three major political parties have heard reports the new rules resulted in many voters being denied the opportunity to vote.

John Enright with Elections Canada doesn’t attribute the low voter turnout to the changes, and believes the public was given plenty of notice and lots of options — including a provision that allowed voters to vouch for others at the polls.

Enright adds that although there were people who had to be turned away, Elections Canada is pleased with the administration of the election on the ground.