Cheers &Jeers
JEERS to P.E.I. PC MLAS who voted down a private member’s bill that would require three per cent of anticipated profits from the Liquor Control Act (about $1.5 million in 2023) to be directed to responsible consumption programs. When Liberal MLA Gord Mcneilly introduced the bill on March 19, he told the legislature he was shocked by some of the stories to emerge from a Saltwire investigative series focused on stories of impaired driving in P.E.I. Clearly, this is a topic we believe needs to be addressed. Mcneilly’s bill could have been a positive step in that direction if it had been allowed to pass.
CHEERS
to the organizers of the recent Relay for Life event held at UPEI that raised more than $13,000 for cancer research. It was the first time in five years that the event was held at the university and about 85 people took part. The organizers had a goal of raising $10,000 but managed to surpass that. The relay is now registered with the university and planning is already underway for next year.
JEERS
to the vandals who caused a disruption to home-phone service in P.E.I. recently. Bell Aliant said an act of vandalism in Nova Scotia knocked out service in P.E.I. on April 1 for about three hours. The RCMP are investigating the incident, which leaves questions about what the vandals’ goal was. After the incident, Bell called on provincial and federal governments to take steps to protect telecommunications infrastructure. Phone service is a vital link and, although emergency services were not impacted, any disruptions should be taken seriously.
JEERS
to disrespectful ATV riders who continue to ignore the rules on the Confederation Trail. Despite rules prohibiting the use of all-terrain vehicles on the trail, some riders continue to disregard the regulations. The trail is designated exclusively for pedestrians, cyclists and individuals in wheelchairs. The reason for the ban is to ensure safety, especially considering how many families – including children and dogs – use the trail each day. Furthermore, the deep tracks left behind by ATVS on the soft ground this time of year pose a safety hazard and are expensive to repair. This behaviour is not only disrespectful but also endangers the well-being of others.
CHEERS
to all of the restaurants involved in this year’s P.E.I. Burger Love and to P.E.I. Family Violence Prevention Services for taking over the event. This year, 90 restaurants are taking part in the campaign, which is back after a break in 2023. P.E.I. Family Violence Prevention Services is using the event as a fundraiser with $1 from every burger sold going to emergency shelter Anderson House. With no entry fee for restaurants this year, the event should be a win-win for everyone involved.