Statement by Premier Lantz in advance of the First Ministers’ Meeting & Council of the Federation Meeting

Hon. Rob Lantz, Premier of Prince Edward Island, issued the following statement in advance of the First Ministers’ Meeting & Council of Federation Meetings being held in Ontario, July 21-23, 2025:  

“As I prepare to join my provincial and territorial colleagues in Ontario for the upcoming First Ministers Meeting and Council of the Federation, I am focused on delivering clear and urgent priorities for the people of Prince Edward Island.

First and foremost, I will be speaking directly with Prime Minister Carney and his team about the immediate need to follow through on their promise to lower the tolls on the Confederation Bridge to $20 and reduce the Wood Islands Ferry tolls by half. Islanders and visitors alike deserve fair and affordable access to and from our province– these key pieces of infrastructure provide essential links to our province for our residents, businesses, and the tourism sector.

I will also ensure the federal government is fully aware of the recent disruption in service with the new MV Northumberland and ask them to have Transport Canada officials monitor the situation closely. It is imperative that we have a consistent, two-vessel ferry service throughout the season to support our economy and maintain confidence in our transportation infrastructure.

On the national front, I look forward to working with my colleagues to continue breaking down internal trade barriers, exploring new trading partnerships, and increasing labour mobility throughout the country. With ongoing uncertainty in our trade relationship with the United States, it is more important than ever that we strengthen our domestic economic ties and work together to explore new markets for our products and services around the world. I know my fellow Premiers are united in our commitment to build one strong Canadian economy—from coast to coast to coast.

Following the Prime Minister’s recent announcement of a $9 billion increase in defence spending to reach 2% of GDP this year, I will be working closely with federal officials to identify opportunities for Prince Edward Island to contribute to this national effort. Our province is home to innovative, capable businesses that are ready to support Canada’s security while creating good jobs and economic growth here at home.

Finally, I will be joining my Atlantic colleagues in reiterating to the Prime Minister that our region is ready, willing, and able to advance a transformative regional energy project. This initiative can be a true Nation Building Project—enhancing energy generation and transmission across Atlantic Canada and contributing to energy security for the entire country.

I look forward to productive discussions and meaningful outcomes that reflect the priorities of Islanders and strengthen our province’s place in the Canadian federation.” 

Media contact:

Emily Blue 
Office of the Premier 
emilyblue@gov.pe.ca