(Toronto, Canada) – Elections Ontario defended its voting accommodations at a human-rights hearing October 29, while an accessibility advocate argued that blind voters still lack reliable independence and privacy.

According to The Canadian Press, the hearing involved final submissions in David Lepofsky’s complaint following the 2018 provincial election. He said a ballot fell from an accessible voting machine and a poll worker inadvertently saw his choice.

Elections Ontario’s lawyer argued that accommodations must protect ballot security and secrecy, and said its technology lets voters mark and verify their choices independently.

Lepofsky sought a review of accessibility measures and an independent monitor. Those are requested remedies; the report does not establish a tribunal ruling.

What the agency currently offers

Elections Ontario’s published guidance describes audio-tactile controls, paddles and sip-and-puff technology. It says assistive voting technology is available at local election offices during specified advance-voting periods and by appointment on election day, with walk-ins accommodated where possible.

The agency also lists vote-by-mail and home-visit options for people unable to attend a voting location. Those published services are distinct from whether the tribunal finds the accommodations sufficient.

Sources: The Canadian Press via CHCH, October 29; Elections Ontario accessibility guidance.

Editorial illustration of assistive voting equipment and a privacy screen; not a photograph of an actual machine or hearing.