Edmonton, AB – Even for those who don’t consider themselves particularly ‘political’, politics affects their everyday lives.   From traffic laws to taxation rates and local building projects, our elected representatives make decisions which have a significant impact on thousands or millions of people.   Election Day is the only time when the average Canadian is able to influence the direction of their town, their province or their country.

With this in mind, people across Canada volunteer countless hours to protectthe very basis of democracy – the right to vote freely and without fear of reprisals.   In light of the corrupt elections that happen around the world, we are fortunate to have an election system made up of Canadian citizens who volunteer their time to work in highly stressful and highly regulated voting stations.

Richard Audy, owner/broker of Sutton Group – Synergy Realty in Edmonton, is one of these people who have donated their time to do the often thankless job of ensuring that people are able to exercise their right to vote.   In the most recent election, which took place in November, Richard served as a polling station supervisor for Elections Canada.   His 12-hour day began at 8 a.m.

A dispute over the vote count in his region demonstrates the need for careful, vigilant volunteers such as Richard.   In his riding, the incumbent and the newly elected ministers had to go to court to resolve the vote count.   Although Richard’s station was flawless, there was another station that when the court ordered a re-count, it favoured one way and on the second count the other way.   There was a 3 to 5 vote difference between candidates.

During the process, all voting stations were under close scrutiny and today, the Alberta government has stepped in and is reviewing the voting process.

Richard can be reached at the office 780.478.8866.

Sutton associates like Richard are making a dramatic difference in communities across Canada through their caring and generous Sutton Spirit.   They donate their time and skills by coaching, organizing fundraisers, volunteering and teaching.   Their dedication and commitment is helping to improve the quality of life for countless Canadians.   Sutton is a 100% Canadian-owned and operated company with more than 8,100 associates in 191 offices nationwide. www.suttonspirit.com

Sutton Group Realty Services Media Contacts:

Leanne D. Chan        (604) 377-9223               leanne@sutton.com