Wanted: One P.E.I. senator
Now is time for Islanders to apply directly or nominate others they would want in Senate
The Senate of Canada has a variety of occupations among its members: there are currently 18 lawyers, 13 professors, a dozen businessmen and women, journalists, chartered accountants and nurses. Nevertheless, in a chamber of 105 people, there are still no farmers, fishers or veterans.
Even with a newly appointed senator who brings to the chamber a long history of working on agricultural issues, one member out of 105 is simply not enough for the agriculture and agri-food sector in the Senate.
These important voices are missing from our debates. However, with 12 Senate vacancies from regions across Canada, including one in Prince Edward Island, we have an opportunity to fill these gaps in representation.
The Senate has made progress in improving its diversity. For example, 45 per cent of senators are women, compared to only 27 per cent of members of the House of Commons.
But other forms of diversity need to be addressed as well, namely representatives of primary industry such as farmers and fishers, and those who wore the uniform of the Canadian Forces in the service of their country.
It is my hope that the Prime Minister will keep this in mind during the upcoming cycle of Senate appointments.
Now is the time for Prince Edward Islanders to apply directly or nominate others they would want representing them in the Senate of Canada.
The application process for the current vacancies in the Senate is currently open. To apply, follow the instructions available online at the website of the Independent Advisory Board for Senate Appointments (https://www. canada.ca/en/campaign/ independent-advisory-boardfor-senate-appointments/ current-processes.html). To nominate someone else, go to https://senate-appointments.canada.ca/nomin. asp?lang=eng.
You can also call the Advisory Board toll-free at 1-888-854-1806 (TTY 1-800465-7735). The deadline for nominations and applications is April 3.