Helping P.E.I.’s economy

Board of Economic Advisors provides key perspective and advice to government

We are very fortunate as a province that so many people are willing to freely offer their time, expertise and assistance to the betterment of Prince Edward Island. Across government, there are hundreds of Islanders who serve on a variety of boards and commissions - and they often do so on a volunteer basis.

To my mind, this is extremely important, because government is better when it listens to the advice of citizens.

For that reason, I was quite disappointed to read a recent letter published in your newspaper that attacks three individuals who are assisting our province with their economic advice. Bear in mind that the Board of Economic Advisors simply provides perspective and advice. Government is responsible for setting economic policy.

∙ Tim O’Neill lives in Cape Traverse. He has taught at the University of Prince Edward Island. He is a former president of the Atlantic Provinces Economic Council.

∙ Elizabeth Beale is a former president of the Atlantic Provinces Economic Council. She has served as a director at the Three Oaks Foundation at the University of Prince Edward Island. She is a former lecturer in journalism at the University of King’s College.

∙ Michael Horgan is a former federal Deputy Minister of Finance. He also served for three years as the President of the Atlantic Canada Opportunities Agency. Additionally, his parents are from the Island - and he has deep social and family ties to our province.

All three of these individuals are acclaimed economists with a deep interest in helping Prince Edward Island. And all three are contributing their insights to building an increasingly prosperous and diverse economy. That’s important because our economy is changing.

For example, Prince Edward Island’s exports last year reached an all-time high of $1.3 billion. Retail sales have never been as strong, and sectors like aerospace, biosciences and information technology are playing a larger and larger role in our economy.

So, it was extraordinarily disappointing to read an attack on these three people published in the Guardian.

A debate over ideas is always welcome - but personal attacks should be rejected. There is good reason to reject the negative approach: Increasingly, people are turning away from participation in public affairs. The work is often difficult. And, the work is often done on a voluntary basis. This attack on three well-respected individuals will do nothing to attract people to help in building a more prosperous Prince Edward Island.

In conclusion, I believe that most Islanders are appreciative of the fact that so many people are willing to work with government to improve our economic and social prospects. To my mind, it’s a matter for celebration - not attack.