No-shows mar Calgary-Elbow forum

Three of seven candidates failed to attend a forum Wednesday night for the Calgary-Elbow constituency byelection.

Voters willgo to the polls in Calgary-Elbow on June 12 to elect former premier Ralph Klein's successor in the provincial riding.

Wednesday night's forum, hosted by the Green party, was held at St. Andrew's United Church. Four candidates showed up but the Liberal, Progressive Conservative and New Democrat candidates declined the invitation.

Derek Jassman left early because two of the candidates he hoped to hear from were missing.

"I'm personally a little disappointed that all the candidates aren't here."

Organizer James Kohut told CBC News the three no-shows were upset over the format, which gave all seven candidates equal time to speak.

At another forum Thursday, hosted by Friends of Medicare, Liberal Craig Cheffins and New Democrat Al Brownsaid they were just too busy with other campaigning.

Cheffins said he heard about Wednesday night's forum at the last minute.

"We're very accessible and available, but unfortunately another party put something on and we've already made commitments and realistically we have to be respectful of the commitments we make, as well."

Residents of Drumheller-Stettler will also vote for an new MLA on June 12,to replace former deputy premier Shirley McClellan.