The Erection of Telecommunications Towers is Within Federal Jurisdiction

Minister Gail Shea has confirmed that the erection of telecommunications towers is within federal jurisdiction. While investigating this matter, the Department of Community and Cultural Affairs made inquiries with officials in other provinces. All replies received indicated that provinces do not issue building permits for these towers on the basis that they do not have jurisdiction to do so. A legal opinion from solicitors in the Office of the Attorney General indicates that, in accordance with federal legislation, the decision-making authority to approve or deny the erection of telecommunications towers rests with the federal government and, specifically, Industry Canada.

Minister Shea said she can appreciate recent concerns raised about the potential number of these towers and the impact they might have on neighbouring property owners and our rural landscape. She further stated that, while the province does not have jurisdiction, she trusts that Industry Canada will make every effort to ensure that the concerns of Islanders are given appropriate consideration before approvals are given for the erection of these structures.

The Minister advised, "I am writing to Honourable Allan Rock, Federal Minister of Industry; Honourable Anne McLellan, Federal Minister of Health; Honourable Lawrence MacAulay, Solicitor General of Canada; and the other Members of Parliament from Prince Edward Island, to advise of the concerns that have been expressed by residents who are living close to the location of these proposed towers. I am also contacting Rogers Communications to express the concerns of some Island residents and to request that Rogers Communications review the matter with the view of possibly locating its telecommunications equipment on towers that are already in existence in this province."