An Ontario First: Advance Polls On College And University Campuses

For the first time in Ontario’s history, advance polls will be set up on just about every college and university campus in the province.

There was concern that the college support worker strike would keep polling stations from being set up. However, earlier this week Ontario’s Chief Electoral Officer, Greg Essensa, announced advance polls will be open between Wednesday, September 28 and Friday, September 30.

“We’re pleased to once again be providing advance polls on college campuses in Ontario,” said Essensa.

“On-campus voting is one of the many ways that we’re making voting easier and more convenient for the 40th Provincial General Election.”

Groups like the Canadian Federation of Students have been working closely with Elections Canada to come up with new ways to improve student voting numbers.

“Students often find themselves on campus from early morning to late at night and have a hard time getting to a poll station on voting day,” said Sandy Hudson, Chairperson of the Canadian Federation of Students-Ontario.

“Providing students the opportunity to vote on campus over several days is a great improvement to the electoral process and we look forward to continue working closely with Elections Ontario to improve student voter turn-out.”

Click Here for a list of college and university advance polls.