Three byelections announced for the same day as expected federal election

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VANCOUVER (NEWS1130) – Questions are being raised about an announcement by Elections Canada and if it will affect when you head to the polls.

Three Ontario byelections have been slated for the same day the next federal election is expected to be held.

October 19th is the date you want to circle, likely to be the day you vote — also the date of the three byelections.

Political Scientist at University of Fraser Valley Hamish Telford says the announcement may just be a requirement that needs to be lawfully met by the Harper government when a seat becomes vacant.

“There has to be a byelection within 180 days of the vacancy being created,” he explains. “Effectively those byelections will get cancelled and never happen. Those three ridings will elect their new member of parliament as part of the general election, along with everyone else in the country.”

Former foreign affairs minister John Baird left Ottawa West-Nepean vacant with his sudden resignation earlier this year.

Peterborough is vacant because former Conservative MP Dean Del Mastro was found guilty last fall of violating the Canada Elections Act.

Former New Democrat MP Glenn Thibeault resigned his seat in Sudbury to join the Ontario Liberals.

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