Vote in Nunavik: Chief Electoral Officer apologizes

Chief Electoral Officer Stéphane Perrault apologized for the voting services in Nunavik, where citizens were unable to exercise their right to vote on Monday.

• Also read: A young Inuk who wants a better future for his community is “frustrated” at not having been able to exercise his right to vote

In a written statement sent Wednesday, the DGE added that an investigation will be conducted soon. However, it appears certain that the injured parties will not be entitled to a recovery.

Elections Canada will examine the circumstances that led to this situation and make its findings public.

"I deeply regret that some Nunavik voters were unable to vote. I offer them my sincere apologies," said Mr. Perrault.

According to him, the lack of services in Nunavik during the general election underlines the importance of the work that remains to be done.

A promise

"Over the past three years, Elections Canada has been in contact with Indigenous communities across the country and has made it a priority to remove barriers and improve voting services for Indigenous electors," explains the director, who promises to better serve voters in Nunavik.

The Journal published the testimony of an 18-year-old Inuk from Nunavik, who was very disappointed at not having been able to exercise his right to vote, even though he wants a "better future" for his community.

On Monday, the approximately 500 residents of the municipality of Ivujivik, the northernmost village in Quebec, were unable to vote. The only polling station never opened due to a lack of staff.

No return

Early voting was also not possible, for the same reasons.

Elections Canada was unable to say how many polling stations were closed or partially open on Monday.

The riding of Abitibi–Baie-James–Nunavik–Eeyou was won by Liberal Mandy Gull-Masty. It has not been possible to speak to the newly elected representative at this time.