People from key P.E.I. sectors optimistic about prospect of working with new premier
'Sometimes we're forced into change... but that doesn't always mean that it's bad change'
As Prince Edward Island transitions to new political leadership, representatives from different associations and economic sectors say they hope Premier Rob Lantz will build on the positive relationships his predecessor established.
Lantz, who's been in cabinet since winning his district in the April 2023 election, was sworn in as Prince Edward Island's 34th premier Friday after Dennis King announced he was resigning and stepping away from politics.
"Like probably most people on the Island, I was surprised and almost shocked," said Bruce MacDougall, president of the Federation of P.E.I. Municipalities. "We can't say anything else but thank you to Premier King."
MacDougall said he was grateful for King's support in the development of a provincial land use policy and his commitment to a fair and equitable revenue-sharing program between municipalities and the province.
Looking ahead, MacDougall said he's optimistic about Lantz's leadership, as the federation had "a great working relationship" with him in the past, including while he was minister of housing, land and communities.
He also likes the fact that the new premier served as a Charlottetown city councillor for two terms between 2006 and 2014.
"He knows the issues and he understands where municipalities are coming from. And I think that's going to be a big plus for the Island," MacDougall said.
Tourism industry
Corryn Clemence, CEO of the Tourism Industry Association of P.E.I., said the sector had a strong and collaborative relationship with King.
She looks forward to discussing industry concerns with Lantz, particularly regarding government support for tourism and emerging challenges, such as U.S. President Donald Trump's looming tariffs and how that will impact the Island's tourism industry.
"It's times of change," Clemence said.
"Sometimes we're forced into change and they're uncomfortable, but that doesn't always mean that it's bad change. So we're excited for the opportunities ahead."
Business community
Sam Sanderson, vice-president of the Greater Summerside Chamber of Commerce, also praised the strong working relationship the business community had with King, saying the former premier was always open to discussing how the province could collaborate with them.
"It's been a very positive environment, and we don't foresee things changing a whole lot with Premier Lantz," said Sanderson, who is also the head of the Construction Industry Association of P.E.I.
He said there are quite a number of challenges facing the new premier. Given P.E.I.'s diverse economy with its many different sectors, Sanderson said it's important for the premier to stay on top of things to keep all sectors thriving. He also pointed out that immigration, housing, health care and ongoing tariff concerns will need attention.
"There's a lot on Premier Lantz's plate."
One specific concern for Summerside businesses is the city's ongoing electrical issues, which have had a major impact on local businesses. Sanderson said he hopes the new premier will help address the problem.
Family violence prevention advocates
Danya O'Malley, executive director of P.E.I. Family Violence Prevention Services, is optimistic that Lantz will continue supporting efforts to address family violence in the province.
O'Malley recalled the new premier's past comments on the issue when he was asked about family violence at an event, and talked about how the government would ensure the issue is given the attention it needed.
"He drew on some of the notable tragedies that we've had in the province, where we know, looking back, that improvements could have been made with more collaboration, better information sharing, and that he really supports that in order to ensure that we prevent tragedies like that from happening again," said O'Malley, who is also chair of the Premier's Action Committee on Family Violence Prevention.
"These are very encouraging statements."
With files from Wayne Thibodeau