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Sept 22, 2023
Dear Member;
I hope this letter finds you in good health and high spirits. I am writing to you today with great enthusiasm and a deep sense of civic responsibility, as we approach this year's Manitoba Provincial Election scheduled on October 3rd. It is my firm belief that active participation in our democratic process is not only a privilege but also a vital duty of every citizen. Moreover, I would like to emphasize the numerous advantages of accessing the advance polling booths, which provide greater convenience and flexibility for voters.
The essence of democracy lies in the collective voice of the people, and your participation in the electoral process is crucial to shaping the future of our beloved province, Manitoba. By casting your vote, you contribute to the selection of leaders and representatives who will make decisions that directly impact our lives, our communities, and our shared future. Every vote matters, and it is through this collective expression of our will that we ensure a government that truly reflects the aspirations and values of Manitobans.
One of the most convenient ways to exercise your right to vote is by taking advantage of the advance polling booths. These booths offer several benefits:
- Flexibility: Advance polling allows you to vote at a time and location that best suits your schedule. Whether you have work commitments, family obligations, or other responsibilities on Election Day, advance polling provides the flexibility to cast your vote when it's most convenient for you.
- Avoiding Long Lines: On Election Day, polling stations can get crowded, leading to long wait times. Advance polling typically offers shorter lines and a quicker voting process, ensuring that you can make your voice heard without undue delay.
- Peace of Mind: By voting in advance, you eliminate the risk of unforeseen circumstances preventing you from voting on Election Day. Life can be unpredictable, but advance polling ensures that your vote is counted regardless of what might arise on Election Day.
Moreover, I would like to draw your attention to the Manitoba Elections Act, which recognizes the importance of participating in elections. Section https://web2.gov.mb.ca/laws/statutes/reccsm/e030e.php#89 of the Manitoba Labour Code stipulates that employees are entitled to time off with pay to vote in a provincial election. This provision underscores the significance of civic engagement and guarantees that your employer should support your efforts to participate in the electoral process.
Paid Time Off for Voting: In Manitoba, employers are required to provide paid time off for employees to vote in provincial elections. According to the Manitoba Employment Standards Code, employees are entitled to three consecutive hours of paid time off to vote during polling hours if they do not have three consecutive hours off work during that time.
For example, if an employee's work shift is from 7:00 AM to 7:00 PM, and polling stations are open from 8:00AM to 8:00 PM, the employer must grant paid time off to ensure the employee has three consecutive hours to vote. If the employee's shift ends at 7:00 PM, they would be entitled to leave at 5:00 PM to vote. Additional examples include the options of allowing staff to visit polling stations either at the beginning or during the middle of the workday as well without loss of pay.
Unpaid Leave for Other Elections: While the above provisions apply to provincial elections, employers are not required to provide paid time off for municipal or federal elections. However, employees still have the right to unpaid leave to vote in these elections.
Advance Polling and Special Ballots: Employees who choose to vote in advance polling or via special ballots are entitled to time off to vote as necessary to ensure they have a reasonable opportunity to cast their ballots. This includes flexibility for advance polling days.
In conclusion, I urge you to make your voice heard in this year's Manitoba Provincial Election. Your vote is not just a right; it is a powerful tool for shaping our province's future. Please consider utilizing the convenience of advance polling booths, and remember that as an employee, you are entitled to time off with pay to vote, as outlined in the Manitoba Labour Code.
Thank you for your commitment to our democracy and for taking an active role in our province's future. Your vote matters, and together, we can build a brighter and more inclusive Manitoba for all.
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