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Misfortunes shouldn’t stop person from voting

Re: “Stop the unfair ‘how we fix’ Elections Act,” April 15. As long as Canadians are being asked if it is reasonable that someone should produce proof of identity in order to be allowed to vote, the answer will likely continue to be yes.

Re: “Stop the unfair ‘how we fix’ Elections Act,” April 15.

As long as Canadians are being asked if it is reasonable that someone should produce proof of identity in order to be allowed to vote, the answer will likely continue to be yes. There won’t be many who think this an unreasonable requirement. Ask the same respondents: “Is it reasonable that no alternative to this requirement be available in cases of exceptional circumstances?” and you may find that Canadians really do care.

If our neighbour were to lose everything in a fire, how many of us would feel outraged that they would then lose their vote because they have been the victim of unfortunate circumstances? Or like Elizabeth May’s daughter attending university across the country, or someone on the move for work purposes — is it reasonable to expect that these people will be able to provide not only proof of identity, but also proof of residence?

It would surprise me if Canadians feel that these people are not entitled to vote.

Laurie McDonald

Gabriola Island