FAQ: Do I get time off to vote in Monday's federal election?

On October 19, HSA members will help elect a new federal government. Members are encouraged to vote for candidates who support public services, and the people who deliver them. Many members have asked whether they get time off to vote. 

• Election Day: Monday October 19
• Voting times: 

7:00 am - 7:00 pm (Pacific Time)

7:30 am - 7:30 pm (Mountain Time)

To vote, you must be a Canadian citizen and at least 18 years old on Election Day.

Your assigned voting locations are indicated on the Voter Information Card mailed from Elections Canada. You may also find these locations by entering your postal code at http://www.elections.ca/Scripts/vis/FindED?L=e&PAGEID=20

Time off work to vote

By law, employers must give employees who are qualified voters at least three (3) consecutive hours off work with pay during voting hours on Election Day, in order to vote. Your employer has the right to determine at what point the time is given during voting hours on Election Day.

For most of BC, this means your employer could allow you to arrive late (at 10:00 am), let you leave early (at 4:00 p.m.), or give you three hours off at some point during the work day.

• Note: Members who are eligible to vote, and who are covered by the Nurses Bargaining Association collective agreement or one of the Community Social Services agreements, are entitled under these contracts to four (4) consecutive hours off work during voting hours on Election Day in order to vote.

For more information on voter eligibility and information about what identification you need to take with you to vote, see the Elections Canada website at www.elections.ca.