H1N1 & the Federal Election

WINNIPEG – New Democrat Health Critic Judy Wasylycia-Leis has written the following letter to Elections Canada to inquire about their plans and preparations regarding H1N1.

Text of Letter follows:

September 11, 2009

Marc Mayrand
Chief Electoral Officer of Canada
Elections Canada
257 Slater Street Ottawa, Ontario K1A 0M6
Fax: 613-954-8584

Dear Sir,

H1N1 Preparedness & Canadian Federal Election

I write to enquire, given the possibility of a federal election this fall, about the plans and preparations that Elections Canada is taking regarding H1N1.

As you are no doubt aware, experts expect a strong resurgence in H1N1 infections in the coming months, with high incidences in some communities, including remote Aboriginal communities. An election poses significant potential public health risks. Large public events, canvassing and other typical campaign activities, not to mention polling booths and long line-ups to vote on election day, all result in a great deal of contact between members of the public.

In the event of a fall election, what measures are Elections Canada planning to safeguard public health and to ensure Canadians who contract the virus are not disenfranchised?

Yours sincerely,
Judy Wasylycia-Leis (Winnipeg North)
Health Critic
New Democratic Party of Canada