A spring election could be around the corner as the federal government fell from power on Friday.

The opposition parties – the Liberals, NDP and Bloc Quebecois – voted the Conservatives down saying they no longer had confidence in them.

This marks the first defeat of a Canadian government since 2005 and the sixth time in the country’s history.

After the vote, Prime Minister Stephen Harper said he will ask Governor General David Johnston to formally dissolve parliament on Saturday.

“Today’s vote, which of course is a disappointment to me, I suspect, will disappoint Canadians,” said Harper.

As soon as Parliament is dissolved, candidates will be out in full force in local neighbourhoods and party leaders will begin their cross-country trek on the campaign trail.

efawcett@reddeerexpress.com