Federal election signs in a Toronto neighbourhood are noticeably being destroyed as the election draws close, with some social media users saying the problem has been growing across the country.
The issue has been raised in social media posts with the election only two weeks away.
One Reddit user pointed out Liberal signs being destroyed in the Markham and Ellesmere area of Scarborough, where Liberal candidate Michael Coteau is running for the Scarborough-Woburn riding.
“This is common for the area,” another user said.
“Someone really hates them,” a Reddit user replied.
“There are a couple of [people] who live on my street who constantly destroy anything related to Liberals, NDP, or Green’s. They’ve been reported several times,” another Reddit user added.
Other social media users have pointed out that signs from various parties are being targeted “all across the country,” including in other Toronto areas like Etobicoke.
“Stop destroying election signs,” an X user said. “Liberal, conservative, it doesn’t matter. If you’re so triggered by a political sign that you have to destroy it, you need help.”
In a statement to Now Toronto, Elections Canada says it has no jurisdiction to deal with signs that are destroyed, removed or stolen.
“If it happens the following can be done: notify local police… and/or, a complaint in writing can be sent to the Commissioner of Canada Elections, which is responsible for investigating offences such as the destruction of signs under the Canada Elections Act,” the statement said.
Now Toronto reached out to Toronto Police about any reports involving destroyed signs and is waiting for a response.
In a statement to Now Toronto the Liberal Party of Canada spokesperson, Guillaume Bertrand,
says that the behaviour is something that all campaigns should condemn.
“We, as the Liberal Party, are committed to run a positive campaign. And yes, it is difficult for the local teams. There’s resources that are put into replacing the signs, bringing new signs, etc. But in the end, we are just focused on the work we have to do,” he said.
The federal election is set for April 28, with advance voting taking place on April 18, 19, 20, and 21.
