Byelection Enumerators Start Knocking Feb. 3

Electoral Office- Byelection Enumerators Start Knocking Feb. 3

Let the door-knocking begin.

On Saturday, Feb. 3, enumerators in two provincial constituencies will start going door to door to compile new voters' lists for the coming byelections in Cape Breton North and Halifax Fairview.

Voters there will choose new members of the legislature on Tuesday, March 6.

"Despite the fact that we've just had a federal election, there's a legal requirement that we prepare an updated list," said Janet Willwerth, Nova Scotia's acting chief electoral officer. "So people in both constituencies can expect enumerators at their homes, apartments and seniors' homes starting this Saturday."

She adds that enumerators will wear identification -- a button with the words "Enumerator -- Elections Nova Scotia" and a graphic of the Nova Scotia flag.

A new, updated list will also capture names of people who have turned 18 since the last election and those who have moved into the constituencies. On average, statistics show that as much as 20 per cent of the population moves each year. An accurate list of voters also helps avoid confusion or mistakes on election day.

To qualify to vote, a person must be 18 years of age or older on election day, a Canadian citizen or British subject and a resident of Nova Scotia for six months prior to Jan. 25, when the election was called. Eligible voters must also have been living in the constituency on Jan. 25.

If residents aren't home when enumerators drop by, they can still apply to be added to the voters' list.

Ms. Willwerth said the enumerations in Cape Breton North and Halifax Fairview will cost an estimated $50,000. The Electoral Office has hired approximately 230 people to complete the work by Thursday, Feb. 8.