The NDP and Conservatives were sent a strong message in the federal byelections that saw the incumbent parties win back their seats.

In Durham Region, Conservative Erin O’Toole reclaimed the seat vacated by former cabinet minister Bev Oda, who resigned in July.

The Tories squeezed by in Calgary-Centre after strong showings from the Liberal and Green candidates, while in Victoria the NDP almost lost to the Green party.

Cheryl Collier, a political scientist at the University of Windsor said it is clear who made the biggest impact in the votes.

“The Green Party is one that most people in Canada write off,” Collier said.

“The fact that they were able to have such a polished showing in B.C. shows they might be more than a one-trick pony, and that is something all the parties have to watch out for, including the Liberals.”

Collier added that although Green Party did not win a seat, they proved they are no longer a fringe party, narrowly losing in Victoria and taking 25 per cent of the vote in conservative leaning Calgary.

She added voters also warned the government and opposition they need to improve and that they can’t take their constituents for granted and that have an impact on party messaging leading up to the next election.