Québec City, March 14, 2001 –– In preparation for the by-election that will be held on April 9, 2001 in the electoral division of Mercier, Mr. Marcel Blanchet, Chief Electoral Officer of Québec, would like to provide important information on the provisions of the Election Act pertaining to election expenses.

Preliminary limit on election expenses

During the election period which began at midnight on March 7^th and which will end at the close of polling stations on polling day, each candidate running for election may spend a maximum amount of $64,066.50.

This amount was established on the basis of the number of electors entered on the list of electors of the electoral division of Mercier on March 7^th, the day on which the order announcing the by-election took effect. It should be noted that this is a preliminary ceiling on election expenses, as it may change if the total number of electors of the electoral division turns out to be greater following the list revision periods.

Reimbursement of election expenses

Following the election, the candidate who is proclaimed elected or who has obtained at least 15% of the valid votes will be entitled to the reimbursement of his election expenses incurred and paid pursuant to the Act. However, in the case of an independent candidate, the reimbursement to which this candidate may be entitled cannot exceed the amount of his election debts.

The estimated amount of the reimbursement of the election expenses for a candidate can reach $21,355.50. This amount will also be adjusted if there is an increase in the limit on election expenses.

Returns of election expenses and financial reports

In the 90 days following polling day, the official agent of each candidate will have to submit a return of all election expenses incurred, along with invoices, receipts and all other vouchers. Moreover, in the case of an authorized independent candidate, a financial report must also be submitted.

When the time comes, electors will be able to consult these documents at the web site of the Chief Electoral Officer at the following address: www.dgeq.qc.ca, or obtain a copy by contacting the Institution’s Information Centre:

By e-mail: dgeq@dgeq.qc.ca

By telephone: (418) 528-0422 – (Québec City area)

1 888 ELECTION (353-2846) – (outside Québec)

By mail: Chief Electoral Officer

                Édifice René-Lévesque

                3460, rue de La Pérade

                Sainte-Foy (Québec)

                G1X 3Y5