Elections Nova Scotia Statement – Investigation Not Proceeding
September 8, 2023
Elections Nova Scotia Statement – Investigation Not Proceeding
The purpose of this statement is to follow up on the statement issued by Elections Nova Scotia (ENS) on August 3, 2023, regarding Chief Electoral Officer (CEO) Dorothy Rice’s decision to investigate, pursuant to the investigative authority in Section 287 of the Elections Act, a possible offence under Section 307 of the Elections Act. The investigation related to certain campaign materials used by the Nova Scotia Liberal Party and its candidate during the recent by-election in the Preston electoral district.
Following further consideration of the original complaint, the CEO has decided to discontinue the investigation and has advised the RCMP of this decision. The formal investigation under Section 287 of the Elections Actwill not proceed, and no further action will be taken by ENS. As such, the CEO considers this matter concluded and will not comment further.
In the coming weeks, ENS will publish a report on the Preston by-election wherein the CEO will make recommendations for legislative change regarding the regulation of election advertising. The Election Commission is engaged in the process to review and develop legislative changes.
ENS is a non-partisan and independent agency responsible for conducting provincial elections.
Media Contact:
Elections Nova Scotia
902-424-8584
elections@novascotia.ca
Please note the Director of Policy and Communications is on a leave of absence.