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ACCESS TO VOTING RIGHTS FOR TRAVELLERS
B+
(2006: B+)
Nunavut permits voting by special ballot and proxy. “Emergency voting” by radio or satellite phone is available to
voters in remote locations but the restrictions (for example, the only means of telecommunication at the voter’s
location must be radio or satellite phone) suggest that this method will not usually help travellers. The law requires
that special-ballot application forms be available over the Internet and by toll-free telephone. The form can be
mailed or faxed back and a brochure from Elections Nunavut suggests that the application can be submitted on-
line but the website does not appear to support on-line application. The traveller is solely responsible for ensuring
that the special ballot is received by the chief electoral ofcer prior to 5 p.m. on Friday, the third day before election
day; Elections Nunavut recommends that it be mailed back by Monday of the same week.
To vote by proxy, a voter must apply to the returning ofcer for a proxy certifcate. Proxy applications can only
be made starting fve days before election day and prior to 3:00 p.m. on election day. Territorial general elections
must be held at least every fve years; the next election must be called by November 2013.
Change since last report:
None.
Recommendations:
Remove the current deadline (third day before election day) and accept mail-in ballots that
have been post-marked prior to the close of the polls. Allow e-mail applications for special ballots and confrm that
applications may be submitted on-line. Accept mail-in ballots that have been post-marked prior to the close of the
polls. Fix election dates so travellers can plan accordingly.
AVAILABILITY OF GOVERNMENT INFORMATION
D-
(2006: D-)
The website of the Nunavut Department of Health and Social Services ofers the least information of all govern-
ment health websites in Canada. Some very general health information is available on-line. Travellers will have
difculty fnding any information about drug coverage, reimbursement rates (emergency care/drugs) or residency
requirements for coverage.
By comparison, the website of Elections Nunavut (which is independent of the Nunavut Government) is quite com-
prehensive and informative. There is very good, on-line information on proxy and absentee special ballot voting.
Printable application forms and descriptions of each process are available on-line. It is, however, outdated.
Change since last report:
None.
Recommendations:
Create a comprehensive brochure of medical information for travellers and ensure this infor-
mation is available on-line, as well as at medical ofces and travel agencies. Update the Elections Nunavut website.
2006 A-
Grade