Editorial: Exercise your right

There's simply no excuse for not voting in Canada's next federal election -- just 13 days away. Sadly, too many of our country's eligible voters choose to sit on the sideline while our country's fate is decided. Those who can't be bothered to vote deserve the leadership they receive and automatically forfeit the right to complain about the job being done in Ottawa. Bloody wars have been, and continue to be, waged to secure the democratic right to choose who governs a nation. Why then do so many Canadians opt not to become involved? Preparation for voting day is neither complicated nor timeconsuming. Everything today's voter needs to make an educated decision is available on-line, by phone or by attending an all-candidates' meeting. Elections Canada (www.elections.ca-- 1-800-463-6868) is an excellent place for the first-time voter to gather information about parties, riding boundaries and even voter data from previous federal elections. Locally, several all-candidates meetings are being held prior to decision day. These allow voters to find out where candidates stand on the issues. Think you're ready to vote? Have you received Elections Canada's mailed out confirmation that your name has been included on the registered voters' list for the upcoming election? Have you read the section of the card detailing the dates and location for advance polls in your area should you be unable to vote on Jan. 23? Still need a reason to vote? Today, many regions of the world deny their citizens the right to choose their government. In Canada, we are fortunate to be able to elect our leaders. Why would anyone want to leave that for someone else to decide?