New P.E.I. economic board focuses on population and exports
Premier will also host public forum on P.E.I. economy
A board of three high-profile economists will help new P.E.I. Premier Wade MacLauchlan chart the economic course for the Island.
MacLauchlan, who is also finance minister, announced the appointment of the board Friday morning. The board consists of
- Tim O’Neill, former chief economist and executive vice president for BMO.
- Elizabeth Beale, president and CEO of the Atlantic Provinces Economic Council.
- Michael Horgan, former federal deputy minister of finance.
In a news release, MacLauchlan emphasized the P.E.I. connections of the board members.
O’Neill, originally from Cape Traverse, returned to Prince Edward Island in 2005 after leaving his position at BMO. He has taught at UPEI and served on an advisory group at the UPEI School of Business. Both of Horgan's parents are from P.E.I.
"These individuals bring extensive expertise in the private and public sectors, as well as a strong understanding of, and affinity to, our province," said MacLauchlan.
"[They] will provide valuable advice on economic factors such as population growth and export growth."
O'Neill will serve as chair of the board.
"I look forward to working with my home province on facing our economic challenges and seizing the opportunities before us," said O'Neill.
"Elizabeth and Michael are two of the most experienced and insightful economists in Canada."
Update on fiscal position
MacLauchlan also announced he will host a forum on the Island economy.
"We will continue to meet and engage with all Islanders on how to grow our economy," he said.
MacLauchlan said he is looking for ideas to build on successes in food exports, manufacturing, small businesses and the service sector.
In addition, the premier will discuss the province's fiscal position.
The forum will be held on March 16 from 9:30-12:30 a.m. at Our Lady of the Assumption Hall in Stratford. Islanders planning to attend are asked to register by email by March 12.