Minister Continues Discussions on Rural Development Strategy

Fisheries, Aquaculture and Rural Development Minister Neil LeClair met last week with representatives of the Tourism Industry Association of Prince Edward Island as part of ongoing discussions on a rural development strategy for the province. Mr. LeClair has been meeting with industry groups and businesses to discuss their ideas on the future of rural communities. Those ideas will be incorporated into a discussion paper which is currently being drafted by the department. The paper will be released in the near future.

“It is important to hear first-hand from all those who have a stake in the future of our rural communities,” said Mr. LeClair. “I am deeply impressed with the ideas and suggestions that have come forward, and they will be invaluable as we continue to develop the strategy.”

The discussion paper will be released in April and a formal series of consultations will be held across the province during the summer. The final draft will be completed in November.

“The Tourism Industry Association is very interested in participating with other sectors of our economy such as farming and fishing to come up with effective regional plans to strengthen rural communities,” said Don Cudmore, executive director of TIAPEI. “Visitors are attracted to our province because of the quality and attractiveness of our landscape and the health and vitality of our rural communities.”

Mr. LeClair said he will continue to meet with rural businesses and groups to ensure the new rural development strategy includes their input and support.