P.E.I. VIOLATING RIGHTS

Canadians have heard about the strict travel restrictions that Prince Edward Island imposed due to the spread of COVID-19. Many Islanders are happy with the level of security that they feel from keeping people out the province, but others trying to return to P.E.I. remain separated from their homes and face a violation of their rights.

On April 17, Prince Edward Island declared the province in a state of emergency and border screening was put in place to stop all non-essential travel into the province; permanent residents were allowed in with ease and essential personnel were allowed with approval. For me, a student at the University of Prince Edward Island and resident of P.E.I., I was in neither category.

I applied for pre-approval into P.E.I. and was denied. I have a home in P.E.I., but am not yet a permanent resident, leaving my car and belongings stranded on the Island.

It is clear that P.E.I. has abandoned some of its residents, but what is more upsetting is their violation of Canada’s Charter of

Rights and Freedoms.

Section 6 states, “Every citizen of Canada … has the right to move to and take up residence in any province.” Prince Edward Island has violated this rule and they have no scientific evidence to prove harm caused by denying people access to their home, thus unable to justify their decision. It’s ironic that P.E.I. has secluded themselves from the rest of Canada when they pride themselves on being the Birthplace of the Confederation; the place that united the country. Priya Jain, UPEI Student