Progressive Conservatives on P.E.I. name new interim president

Margaret Anne Walsh is the new interim president of the Progressive Conservatives on P.E.I.

Walsh, a lawyer at Stewart McKelvey, was introduced Tuesday at the monthly provincial council meeting.

“There is a growing level of excitement and optimism in the party,” said Walsh in a statement from the party.

“With the solid performance of our MLAs in the recent spring sitting of the legislature, the success of our spring fundraising dinner, the kickoffs of campaigns to elect a new party leader and the work being done by our committees, members are engaged and working towards a common goal.

“I am pleased to take on a larger role in this process and thank the executive for (its) vote of confidence in me by appointing me as the interim president.”

This appointment fills the vacancy created when Pat Banks resigned from the role of party president after he moved away from Prince Edward Island.

The party executive encouraged members of the association to put their names forward for consideration as president.

A number of people came forward, with the selection made by vote of the executive.

“We were encouraged by the number of people who stepped forward and showed interest in the position of party president; this is a positive sign for any association,” said Craig Davidson, executive director, adding that the first priority is to organize a successful leadership convention this October.

“We will also work towards our annual general meeting taking place at the same time as the convention and will continue to prepare and plan for a general election in the next 18 to 24 months” said Walsh.