Premier Rob Lantz faced questions from the Liberals in the legislature on Nov. 14 about the PC leadership race. In June Lantz said he would not run but in recent weeks he has been unclear about his intentions. Photo by Stu Neatby /The GuardianArticle contentLiberal Opposition Leader Hal Perry took aim at Premier Rob Lantz during question period on Nov. 14, accusing the premier of “dithering” over whether he intends to pursue the leadership of his own party.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 contentPerry said Island residents are met with “constant chaos and confusion” when looking for leadership from government. He cited a lack of access to health care, growing deficits and an education system “in shambles.”Article contentArticle contentArticle content“Question to the premier: Will you finally tell Islanders when you will be resigning from your job as part-time premier to run for the full-time job?” Perry asked.Article contentLantz sidestepped questions about his leadership intentions, saying he is focused on governing the province.Article content“This province has challenges. It always has. It always will. We are elected to deal with those, and that’s what this government does every day,” Lantz said.Article content“We wake up every day to try to make this Island a better place. While I’m in this position, that will be my sole focus.”Article contentLeadership plansArticle contentNine months after the resignation of former premier Dennis King, the Progressive Conservatives have yet to announce a date for their leadership vote. Lantz has been governing since then as the interim leader, having never faced a vote of either the electorate or members of his own party.Article contentArticle contentLantz has so far declined to clarify whether he intends to run for permanent leadership of his party. In June he stated he would not seek the leadership but on Nov. 13, Lantz told reporters he would “make the decision when the time comes.”Article contentArticle contentDuring question period, Perry said members of the PC party are “openly mocking” Lantz.Article content“Question to the premier: What would it take for you to finally be open and honest about your intentions with Islanders if ridicule from your own party won’t motivate you?” Perry asked.Article content“Mr. Speaker, these are party issues. I don’t think that this is the business that the people of Prince Edward Island want us to be debating in the house,” Lantz replied.Article content“They expect us to be here, prioritizing the things that are important to Prince Edward Islanders, and I don’t think this is what they’re concerned about at this time.”
P.E.I. Liberals ask Premier Rob Lantz about leadership vote delays
