CHARLOTTETOWN, P.E.I. — MLAs won’t be heading back to the legislature as scheduled this spring after Speaker Colin LaVie announced he is suspending the sitting because of the coronavirus (COVID-19).
In a statement issued today, LaVie said the suspension is in keeping with the precautionary measures regarding gatherings that chief public health officer Dr. Heather Morrison has recommended.
The legislature was set to resume April 7.
The rules of the legislative assembly state it must open during the first week of April each year and that members of the public will be given sixty days’ notice before the opening of each sitting.
LaVie said the rules also give the speaker the authority to waive those requirements, which he is doing after consultations with Premier Dennis King, Opposition Leader Peter Bevan-Baker and interim Liberal leader Sonny Gallant.
“The first measure is out of an abundance of caution and the second will ensure that the house can be called to sit at any moment, should it be required.”
LaVie said the legislature will be recalled after consultation with the other parliamentary leaders as the situation evolves.
“This decision has not been taken lightly. The Legislative Assembly provides government with the authority to execute their policies. Should the Assembly be required to meet to pass emergency legislation or for any other reason, it can be recalled on short notice.”
