The Prince Edward Island Agriculture Insurance Corporation is relocating to the community of Kensington, says Minister of Agriculture and Forestry, George Webster.
“Relocating the Agriculture Insurance Corporation to Kensington reflects government’s commitment to create new economic opportunities in rural communities across Prince Edward Island,” said Minister Webster. “This move will transfer agricultural jobs to the heart of the farming community and will provide services from a central location, making more efficient use of government assets.”
The Agricultural Insurance Corporation (AIC) is a crown corporation that provides crop insurance and income support programs to farmers. These programs are jointly funded by the federal and provincial governments. There are approximately 42 permanent and casual employees, many of whom work in field positions.
Finance, Energy and Municipal Affairs Minister Wes Sheridan, MLA for the area, said he looks forward to the move.
“This is great news for the community of Kensington as it will bring new economic activity to the town and surrounding area,” said Minister Sheridan. “The relocation is part of a long-term plan that will save government money as the corporation moves from a rented facility to a government-owned building.”
The AIC is currently located on the Research Station property in Charlottetown, which is owned by the federal government. The move will relocate AIC staff to the Potato Services Building in Kensington, which is owned by the province and is underutilized.
The AIC staff will relocate in the spring of 2013.