Media Bulletin - Filming by media during the Toronto Centre by-election

TORONTO , Jan. 22 /CNW/ - Filming and photography are not permitted inside polling places during advance polls or on Election Day , stresses Ontario's Chief Electoral Officer Greg Essensa.

"It is essential that we protect the secrecy of the vote and allow electors to cast their vote in private, without distraction, disruption or delay," said Essensa. "This rule applies even if an elector consents to being filmed."

Media representatives may film outside a voting location provided this is done without interfering with electors' access to the building.

The only exception that will be made is for candidates casting their ballot. Candidates may receive authorization to film the casting of their ballot, but only with PRIOR permission arranged through the Returning Office. Poll officials may not admit media into the poll without proof of permission.

Media wishing to obtain B-roll of electors in a polling place and the voting process may contact Media Relations at Elections Ontario.

Elections Ontario is the non-partisan agency responsible for administering provincial elections, by-elections and referenda.

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For further information: or to be added to Elections Ontario's election night results e-mail list contact: Elections Ontario, Media Relations, [phone], 1-866-252-2152, [email protected]