The province’s Chief Electoral Officer has written each of the party leaders asking for assistance after a large number of electoral workers, many of whom are seniors, have decided to quit the election on Saturday.

An email sent to Bruce Chaulk last night indicated that nine Deputy Returning Officers, 14 poll clerks, three door guards, and 25 poll attendants have quit their positions.

“I need help,” was the plea to Chaulk from an electoral worker who emailed him last night.

Chaulk says as case numbers continue to grow he expects more people will choose their personal health over working in the election and polls will not be able to open.

He calls it a “serious occupational health and safety issue.”

Chaulk cast doubt on the ability to conduct a drive-thru election for people who are isolating after the Chief Medical Officer of Health made it clear that people who are isolating are not to leave their property – severely limiting voting options.

He says the outbreak has had a profound impact on their ability to conduct a fair election and “immediate action” is required.

To complicate matters a senior member of his own staff is in isolation waiting for a test.

Chaulk says the Chief Medical Officer has significant powers when it comes to public health and has the ability to delay the election. He’s asking party leaders to discuss the matter and contact the Lieutenant Governor to explore a constitutionally sound mechanism to postpone polling day.