Please be advised that Elections Canada has strict regulations concerning vandalism, removal and theft of public election signs. Under Section 325 of the Canada Elections Act, it is illegal to …�ï�¿�½�Â��ï�¿�½�Â�¬�ï�¿�½�Ã� �ï�¿�½�Â�prevent or impair the transmission to the public of an election advertising message without the consent of a person with authority to authorize its transmission…�ï�¿�½�Â��ï�¿�½�Â�¬�ï�¿�½�Ã��ï�¿�½�Â�. The punishment for removing or defacing election signs that are lawfully placed may include a fine of up to $5000, up to six months in jail or both. If you would like to read more about this law, visit Elections Canada website at www.elections.ca or the Ministry of Justice at http://laws-lois.justice.gc.ca/eng/acts/e-2.01/.
Public Election signs are also regulated by municipal bylaws which set the parameters that are appropriate in regards to legal and safe placement and orientation. These bylaws are generally available on the websites of the municipalities or, upon request, at their offices. If you see a public election sign that is placed contrary to the bylaw, please do not take it down yourself as you will then be liable for it. Instead, contact your municipality and ask them to investigate as they see appropriate.
Over the past several weeks, I have personally seen and heard about the disappearance of many public elections signs belonging to many of the federal candidates. Therefore, I urge our constituents in Renfrew-Nipissing-Pembroke to refrain from any such behavior and allow this election to remain a fair, open and positive race as it is meant to be!
Sincerely,
Oliver Jacob
Braeside, ON
