Opposition intensifies as Prince Edward Island’s Progressive Conservatives push for amendments to the Conflict of Interest Act. The move aims to enable Morell-Donagh MLA Sidney MacEwen to retain ownership of his lobster fleet while serving as minister of transportation, infrastructure and energy, and minister of housing and communities.
Conflict Between Provincial and Federal Rules
The provincial Conflict of Interest Act requires cabinet ministers to place business assets into a blind trust. However, Fisheries and Oceans Canada’s owner-operator policy mandates that fishing licenses remain in the owner’s name. MacEwen plans to apply for a substitute operator for his lobster operation and has no intention of fishing this spring. He seeks to keep the license in his name and advocates for changes to the act.
Green Party Leader Raises Alarms
P.E.I. Green Party Leader Matt MacFarlane criticizes Premier Rob Lantz for handling the issue hastily. “For our new Premier to make one of his first – and one of his most important – decisions without even consulting with the very people who this decision will affect – our Island fishers – does not sit well with me,” MacFarlane states. He accuses the premier of playing “fast and loose” with provincial and national laws, suggesting a loss of focus on Islanders’ priorities amid a recent leadership race.
MacFarlane describes the process as “bungled” and argues that discussions about changing the act belong in separate conversations. He calls the premier’s mentions of federal contacts “inappropriate interference,” emphasizing the importance of owner-operator independence in the commercial fishery.
Fishermen’s Association Voices Concerns
The P.E.I. Fishermen’s Association labels the appointment “troubling.” Its statement highlights the group’s advocacy for policies supporting independent owner-operators. Executive Director Ian MacPherson expresses disappointment over the lack of consultation with the premier’s office. “We’ve always had good dialogue with the province,” he notes. “It’s a real concern that the premier has gone on a very specific issue that hasn’t been talked about or even mentioned to the PEIFA…. Certainly there’s going to be pushback.”
Federal MP Opposes Provincial Interference
Egmont MP Bobby Morrissey deems the proposed changes “unacceptable,” warning against provincial interference in the owner-operator policy. “Owner-Operator rules are critical for responsible fisheries management,” his statement reads. “They ensure that inshore fishing licences are held and operated by the people who live and work in coastal communities, keeping the economic value of our marine resources where it belongs…. Rest assured, the federal government remains committed to maintaining the integrity of the policy.”
MacEwen Defends Appointment
MacEwen views his cabinet role as an “exceptional circumstance” and insists he does not intend to alter federal rules. MacFarlane argues that MacEwen should not hold the position without prior legal changes, noting the PCs’ seven-year majority provided ample time to amend the law legitimately.
