The Western Canadian Wheat Growers Association has filed a formal complaint with the Commissioner of Canada Elections regarding a radio advertisement that they maintain has been broadcast in violation of the Canada Elections Act.
The ad calls on voters to vote for MPs that support the Canadian Wheat Board, however the party that has placed the ad has not identified itself in the ad, as required by the Canada Elections Act.
The ad makes reference to a website address that links to the Canadian Wheat Board Alliance. It is not clear whether the ad was placed by the Alliance or not.
In its letter of complaint to the Commissioner, the Wheat Growers note the Alliance is not a registered third party. Any person or group that incurs $500 or more in electing advertising expenses must register with Elections Canada.
“The Wheat Growers are asking the Elections Commissioner to maintain fairness in this election by ensuring all parties play by the rules,” says Gerrid Gust, Chair of the Wheat Growers. “Our goal of obtaining a voluntary CWB should not be undermined by those who show a lack of respect for the law.”
The Wheat Growers certainly respect the right of all Canadians to express their views during this election campaign. However, to maintain the integrity of the election process, we have called on the Elections Commissioner to stop the running of the CWB ad and to prosecute the party responsible for any violations of the Canada Elections Act.
