Idlout Presses Chief Electoral Officer for Answers on Barriers Nunavut Voters Faced in 45th General Election

Ottawa, ON – NDP MP Lori Idlout (Nunavut) is seeking answers from Chief Electoral Officer (CEO) Stéphane Perrault after numerous and concerning disruptions impacted Nunavut voters during the 45th General Election. Idlout hopes more Nunavummiut do not have barriers to in exercising their right to vote.

During the Procedures and House Affairs Committee (PROC) meeting, Idlout drew attention to the hurdles Nunavut voters experience, including a delayed poll opening in Grise Fiord until 2:00 pm, issues with validating voter information, and legislative restraints that make it difficult to address weather delays and mechanical delays that can affect voting. She pressed Perrault on Elections Canada’s use of Section 17(1) of the Canada Elections Act, which allows flexible adaptation in emergencies.

“Nunavummiut experience unique barriers on election day, from extreme weather and mechanical delays to vast distances and time zone confusion,” Idlout says. “People need to know that their vote is protected and their voices will be heard, no matter the challenges.”

Idlout is seeking concrete answers to ensure Elections Canada is better prepared to ensure better preparedness in dealing with challenges.

“Communities like Grise Fiord cannot wait six months to receive election materials. Kitikmeot voters cannot be shut out by misinformation. Polling stations cannot just open halfway through the voting day. The right to vote means the right to fair access.”

Idlout has submitted a detailed letter to the committee requesting a response from the Chief Electoral Officer regarding:

1. Time zone confusion that prevented voters in the Kitikmeot Region from casting ballots
2. Power outages that delayed reporting and risked staff health
3. Lengthy delays in validating election results and language barriers in training for election workers
4. The six-month delay in critical election materials reaching Grise Fiord

“Nobody should have to wonder if their vote will count just because of where they live, what language they speak, or the challenges of the north,” Idlout says. “Nunavummiut deserve decisive action to ensure their democratic rights are honoured and respected.”

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Read MP Idlout’s letter to PROC committee: letter_proc_questions_for_ceo_oct_6_2025.pdf

Watch MP Idlout’s interventions in PROC committee:

https://youtu.be/173trpKFUBQ - Canada Post and Voter Identification Cards

https://youtu.be/34cJBJkfv0I - Grise Fiord residents impacted by delays on Election Day

https://youtu.be/aNzoHGqf7AI - Mitigating weather delays for Nunavut voters