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The Canadian Snowbird Association • www.snowbirds.org • 1-800-265-3200
ACCESS TO VOTING RIGHTS FOR TRAVELLERS
C-
(2006: C-)
Absentee mail-in voting is permitted in Québec for citizens who will be out of the province at the time of a gen-
eral election, a by-election or a referendum. An application for an absentee ballot, including photocopies of two
pieces of identifcation, must be either mailed, faxed or e-mailed to the chief electoral ofcer at least 19 days prior
to Election Day. An absentee voting kit will be sent by return mail or courier to ensure that the voter receives it in
sufcient time to send back the ballot. Marked ballots must be received by 8:00 p.m. on Election Day. Provincial
general elections must be held at least every fve years; the next election must be called by April 2012.
Change since last report:
Email registration.
Recommendations:
Extend the deadline for submitting an application for mail-in ballots; alternatively, eliminate
the deadline, but clearly communicate the last day by which absentee voters’ applications should be received in
order to ensure that they receive their ballots in sufcient time to vote. Accept mail-in ballots that have been post-
marked prior to the close of polls. Fix election dates so travellers can plan accordingly.
AVAILABILITY OF GOVERNMENT INFORMATION
A
(2006: A)
Québec publishes a very good pamphlet entitled Healthcare Services Covered Outside Québec. The pamphlet in-
cludes information about residency, prescription medication and coverage of emergency health services while
travelling. Telephone numbers are listed for those requiring additional information. The pamphlet is available on-
line although it is somewhat difcult to locate. All of the information however, for out-of-province health coverage
contained in the pamphlet is easily accessible on-line.
Québec has excellent on-line information for the distance voter, including a clear link for electors outside Québec,
instructions and printable forms.
Change since last report:
None.
Recommendations:
Ensure pamphlet is available at health ministry and travel ofces.
2006 B-
Grade