OTTAWA, ONTARIO--(Marketwire - July 4, 2012) - The deadline for registered parties to file financial transactions returns for 2011 was midnight, July 3, 2012. These returns are reports on contributions, loans, transfers, by-election expenses and unpaid claims. Party financial statements are also included with the returns.

The Chief Electoral Officer of Canada may grant a deadline extension if a political party applies for one before the statutory deadline. As of July 3, 2012, the following political parties have applied for and been granted an extension:

- Canadian Action Party

- First Peoples National Party of Canada

- Marijuana Party

- New Democratic Party

- Pirate Party of Canada

- Rhinoceros Party

- United Party of Canada

As soon as possible after they are received, Elections Canada posts the returns for 2011 in a searchable database at www.elections.ca.

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Elections Canada is an independent body set up by Parliament.