Postal strike prompts contingency plans for Elections Calgary

The Canadian Union of Postal Workers (CUPW) launched a nationwide strike on Thursday, halting Canada Post mail delivery across the country.

The disruption comes just weeks ahead of Calgary’s General Election on Oct. 20, prompting Elections Calgary to roll out new strategies to ensure voters stay informed and engaged.

Voter Information Cards delayed

Delivery of Voter Information Cards began earlier this week, but only a portion of Calgary households received them before the strike took effect.

Each card was addressed generically to “Resident(s) of (address)” and not to individual voters. Elections Calgary is currently working with Canada Post to identify which addresses were missed.

The Voter Information Card is not required to vote and does not serve as a valid ID at voting stations. However, it does contain helpful details such as the voter’s designated Election Day location, eligibility guidelines, and a QR code linking to the “Where Do I Vote” tool.

Mail-In ballots shift to courier delivery

To accommodate voters who requested mail-in ballots, Elections Calgary will now deliver ballot packages via courier where possible.

Voters will need to cover the cost of the return courier service. Ballot requests and information are available online, by phone at 403-476-4100, or in person at the Elections Calgary Mail-In Ballot Office (Suite 101, 1212 31 Avenue NE).

Voter guides and voting info still accessible

Elections Calgary had already distributed voter guides to households starting the week of Sept. 8. The guides include key voting details and are also available online.

Additional copies will be distributed via flyer services unaffected by the strike, starting Oct. 2, and placed at high-traffic public locations, including Calgary Transit stations, libraries, hospitals, grocery stores, and cafes.

Voters can also access voting information through:

• The “Where Do I Vote” tool
• The Elections Calgary website
• Phone support at 403-476-4100

Raising awareness ahead of election day

To ensure voters are informed despite the postal disruption, Elections Calgary is ramping up outreach through social media, print, radio, and TV ads, as well as bold signage across the city.

Residents are encouraged to sign up for the voter newsletter for timely updates.

More information can be found here.