Rural Communities Council
The Rural Communities Council provides advice and makes recommendations to Government regarding rural topics related to the themes of people, communities, the environment and wellness and explore opportunities for development in rural PEI.
What is the function of the council?
Specifically, the Rural Communities Council:
- Examines, discusses and reviews Government strategies through a rural lens to identify the potential rural impacts of Government policies and decisions.
- Identifies opportunities to enhance rural population growth and recommends ways to improve inclusiveness within rural PEI communities.
- Engages with industry, academia, Government and local partners to understand the complex issues related to people, communities, wellness and the environment in PEI.
- Provides advice to Government with regard to the issues identified by the Regional Economic Advisory Councils including (but not limited to): education, healthcare, housing, the labour market, PEI’s aging population, and the out migration of PEI youth;
- Collaborates with communities, municipalities, and groups such as Partnership for Growth(link is external) (link is external), development corporations (including Summerside and Charlottetown), Rural Action Centres, and Premier's Youth Council to promote community development opportunities that support regional growth.
How many people are on the council?
The Rural Communities Council is composed 12 members appointed by cabinet via Engage PEI.
What are the requirements of council members?
Rural community leaders and residents who are passionate about rural PEI and interested in providing their expertise from a variety of backgrounds are welcome to apply. Typically, there will be 4-6 meetings per year.
What are the nomination requirements?
Applications can be forwarded to Engage PEI and members will be appointed by cabinet. Appointments will be for two (2) years, renewable once. Some initial appointments may be made for three (3) years.
Will I get paid?
Members serve on a volunteer basis without remuneration, but are reimbursed for expenses incurred in serving on the Council.
What is the time commitment of the council?
The Council will meet a minimum of four times per year. Meetings will be held in a central location.
| Name | County | Term Start | Term End |
|---|---|---|---|
| Elmer MacDonald - Co-Chair | Prince | August 23, 2022 | August 22, 2024 |
| Gerry Gallant - Co-Chair | Kings | August 23, 2022 | August 22, 2024 |
| Blake Bernard | Prince | June 30, 2020 | June 30, 2023 |
| Patricia Bray | Kings | August 23, 2022 | August 22, 2024 |
| Jason Ramsay | Prince | June 30, 2020 | June 30, 2023 |
| Terry Nabuurs | Kings | June 30, 2020 | June 30, 2023 |
| Mitch Jollimore | Queens | June 30, 2020 | June 30, 2023 |
| Michelle Pineau | Queens | August 23, 2022 | August 22, 2024 |
| Kelly Shea Rayner | Prince | August 23, 2022 | August 22, 2024 |
| Maria Smith | Queens | June 30, 2020 | June 30, 2023 |
How can I apply?
If you would like to serve as a member of a provincial government agency, board, or commission (ABC) you can apply online through Engage PEI.
Council Reporting and Information
- Rural Communities Council Annual Report (2021-2022)
- RRC Position Statement on Municipal Governance
- RCC Position Statement Climate Change and Climate Action
- RCC Position Statement on Housing
Contact
Amie Swallow MacDonald
Director of Rural and Regional Development
Phone: 902-838-0662