Improving Accessibility for all Voters
Saskatchewan’s general election is April 4, 2016. Elections Saskatchewan is committed to including all citizens in the voting process. This includes preparing to assist voters with disabilities and those who may have unique accessibility requirements.
“Removing barriers to participation makes the electoral process more accessible to everyone, including people with disabilities,” says Dr. Michael Boda, Saskatchewan’s Chief Electoral Officer. “We want everyone to feel welcome and comfortable when they come to vote.”
There is temporary parking near entrances for voters with disabilities. Wherever possible, voting places will be set up with enough space provided to accommodate voters with additional needs. The voting booth will be equipped with magnifiers, a Braille ballot template and pencil grips. Additional lighting and clipboards are also available if needed. Anyone with dexterity concerns with the pencils provided are welcome to bring their own instrument to mark a ballot.
Voters may have a friend assist them in marking their ballot and depositing it in the ballot box. All election workers will be trained to provide voters with assistance when voting.