The Prince Edward Island (P.E.I.) Liberal Party has accused the Progressive Conservative government of violating Island advertising regulations through a video promoting the Island Essentials Benefit. Premier Rob Lantz and Finance and Affordability Minister Jill Burridge are featured in the video explaining the benefit’s workings and how Islanders will benefit from it.
Official Opposition Leader Hal Perry raised concerns that the ad does not adhere to the Government Advertising Standards Act and called for its removal. Perry criticized the government for using taxpayers’ money for partisan purposes instead of focusing on improving Islanders’ lives.
The Government Advertising Standards Act prohibits the inclusion of government officials’ names, voices, or images in advertisements. Given Lantz and Burridge’s appearances in the video, the Liberals lodged a complaint with the provincial auditor general.
In response to the allegations, the premier’s office clarified that no public funds were used to promote the social media video. They assured cooperation with the auditor general to provide all necessary information. However, they did not disclose who funded the ad’s creation when questioned by CBC News.
Auditor General Darren Noonan stated that based on the ad provided, which indicated it was paid for by the Province of P.E.I., it can be assumed that public funds were used. While the act currently lacks defined penalties, Perry announced the Liberal Party’s intention to introduce amendments in the upcoming session to mandate the refunding of ad costs by any governing party found in violation.
Perry emphasized the need for accountability, stating that using taxpayers’ money for partisan promotion during tough economic times for Islanders is unacceptable. The proposed amendments aim to prevent such misuse of public funds in the future.
