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PCs promise $50M infrastructure investment, local food first policy

PCs promise $50M infrastructure investment, local food first policy

P.E.I. Progressive Conservative Leader Rob Lantz released his party's communities platform on Wednesday during a campaign stop in Eldon.

Along with local candidates Andy Daggett, Mary Ellen McInnis and Darlene Compton, Lantz said he would double the community service volunteer bursary from $500 to $1,000 per student. He says this would encourage more Island high school students to volunteer.

Stressing the importance of communities in boosting economic growth, Lantz said all 27 MLAs would be responsible for designing what he called "district economic plans" during the first 100 days in office.

Lantz said a PC government would also more fully utilize public infrastructure such as schools. Lantz suggested if there is vacant space, facilities could be used for other community services such as seniors health.

He also promised to introduce an "Island Food First" policy to promote the government purchase of local food, a move he says would support local producers.

Infrastructure was also part of the announcement. Lantz said a PC government would introduce a 5-year, $50 million infrastructure plan for roads, bridges and other infrastructure. "Smaller communities aren't always able to get a fair shake at some of the federal programs, they're often used up by the larger municipalities," he said. "We think a provincial program designed to support infrastructure right across Prince Edward Island is a great way to support our communities."

He added, "Our new government will encourage a private-sector solution to high-speed internet access across Prince Edward Island, something this government has promised many times and not delivered on."