Advertisement

MLAs want Islanders' input on EI changes

P.E.I. MLAs will host meetings for Islanders concerned about recent changes to employment insurance.

Islanders worried about recent changes to the employment insurance program will have a forum this week to voice their concerns.

A committee of provincial MLAs is holding meetings on the topic Tuesday night in Georgetown and again Thursday in Alberton.

The Standing Committee on Fisheries, Transportation and Rural Development is hitting the road so it can hear first-hand how the changes will affect Islanders, said committee chair, Government House Leader Sonny Gallant.

"We as a committee don't have all the answers. We're going out there to hear peoples' concerns, to present our case, for Atlantic Canada and for the residents of P.E.I., to the federal minister on how this could affect citizens on P.E.I.," said Gallant.

Gallant isn't sure how many people will attend these meetings.

He admits the timing could be better, with Old Home Week currently taking place and it being prime summer vacation time.

But the committee will consider hosting more meetings in the fall, said Gallant.

Meanwhile, committee members have invited MP Gail Shea to address them. Gallant said Shea is considering the request.