MP Kent MacDonald is calling for stronger land use protection in PEI. Photo by Ryan Ross /The GuardianArticle contentAfter taking time to carefully review the available information on this matter, I want to provide the following statement regarding the RCMP’s review of allegations of foreign interference and money laundering in Prince Edward Island.THIS CONTENT IS RESERVED FOR SUBSCRIBERS ONLY.Subscribe now to access this story and more:Unlimited access to the website and appExclusive access to premium content, newsletters and podcastsFull access to the e-Edition app, an electronic replica of the print edition that you can share, download and comment onEnjoy insights and behind-the-scenes analysis from our award-winning journalistsSupport local journalists and the next generation of journalistsSUBSCRIBE TO UNLOCK MORE ARTICLES.Subscribe or sign in to your account to continue your reading experience.Unlimited access to the website and appExclusive access to premium content, newsletters and podcastsFull access to the e-Edition app, an electronic replica of the print edition that you can share, download and comment onEnjoy insights and behind-the-scenes analysis from our award-winning journalistsSupport local journalists and the next generation of journalistsRegister to unlock more articles.Create an account or sign in to continue your reading experience.Access additional stories every monthShare your thoughts and join the conversation in our commenting communityGet email updates from your favourite authorsSign In or Create an AccountorArticle contentThe matter in question is very serious, and I stand by the legal processes in place to examine these allegations thoroughly. In respecting these processes, I will await the results of the RCMP’s findings before commenting further on this part of the issue.Article contentArticle contentArticle contentAt the same time, this review has renewed public concern about the management and protection of land in Prince Edward Island.Article contentArticle contentTransparent planArticle contentThe responsibility for land use and land protection lies squarely with the provincial government. Islanders deserve a transparent and enforceable plan that safeguards farmland, coastal ecosystems and rural communities for future generations. While the passing of the Planning Act on May 16, 2025, in the provincial legislative assembly was a step forward, it must be followed by stronger action and clear accountability, including revisiting the recommendations presented by the Land Matters advisory committee.Article contentArticle content Kent MacDonald reacts to a question at a forum during the federal election. MacDonald is MP for Cardigan and a seventh-generation dairy farmer. Photo by Stu Neatby /The GuardianArticle contentArticle contentAs a farmer on P.E.I. for 40 years, I support considering the use of a land evaluation and area review (LEAR) methodology. It is a balanced and evidence-based framework used across Canada to guide responsible land management.Article contentArticle contentThe LEAR process combines land evaluation and area review, with a long-term agricultural focus. This integrated approach supports both agricultural and generational land decisions, ensuring that family heritage, farm succession, and future land use are considered to make informed, sustainable choices.Article contentArticle contentProtecting our land is not just an agricultural issue – it is also an economic, environmental and cultural one. The Province of Prince Edward Island must demonstrate its commitment to establishing land use policies that are transparent, enforced, and grounded in evidence-based planning that reflects the values of Islanders.Article contentArticle contentArticle contentArticle contentKent MacDonald, MP for Cardigan, is a seventh-generation dairy farmer from Little Pond, P.E.I.Article content
KENT MacDONALD: There is a need for stronger land use protection in Prince Edward Island
