Charlottetown, PE – MLA Matt MacFarlane expressed deep disappointment following the defeat of his motion in the Legislative Assembly which called for the establishment of a Special Committee on Land. The intent of the motion was to ensure greater transparency and accountability in land ownership and use on Prince Edward Island. The PC government used its majority and voted as a block to defeat the motion.

“Islanders deserve a clear and honest conversation regarding how their land is being acquired, held, and used,” said MacFarlane. “This motion was a direct response to growing concerns from residents about the lack of oversight in land transactions, particularly regarding compliance with the Lands Protection Act. The King government’s refusal to support this effort is a troubling signal that transparency and accountability are not its priorities.”

The motion sought to establish an all-party committee to investigate and make recommendations regarding land use, ownership, and the effectiveness of existing legislation. It also proposed an inclusive and transparent process, ensuring Islanders had a voice in decisions that directly impact their communities.

“We’ve seen significant public outcry about land transactions that don’t align with the spirit of the Lands Protection Act. Islanders are demanding answers, and this committee would have been a crucial step toward delivering those answers,” added MacFarlane. “By voting against this motion, the government has chosen to ignore these concerns and keep Islanders in the dark.”

MacFarlane emphasized that the defeat of this motion is not the end of the fight for transparency and fair land management. “This is about protecting our Island’s future, ensuring land is accessible and used in ways that benefits all Islanders. I will continue to push for the accountability and transparency Islanders deserve.”