open Secondary menu

Administrative Review of Procedures for the Tracking and Handling of Shipments Containing Special Ballots at Elections Canada's Distribution Centre in Ottawa

2. Key Findings

The key findings of the administrative review are described below.

  • The review confirmed that the incident was isolated. We determined that it was the result of a human error that was not detected because of vulnerabilities and gaps in the procedures in place at the time. The review revealed areas for improvement in the documentation of procedures as well as opportunities for improving reporting.
  • Part 11 (Special Voting Rules) of the Act creates a special regime for each category of elector (i.e. CAF, international, national/local, incarcerated). This has translated into distinct procedures, training materials and tracking tools across AVM teams. These regimes were further complicated with the use of different methods of delivery (regular mail, courier, diplomatic bag) based on the type of electors. The review revealed areas for improvement in the harmonization and modernization of procedures as well as opportunities for improving communications.