Minister dumped from P.E.I. cabinet after ‘serious error of judgment’

Rob Lantz speaks at PEI PC leadership convention in Charlottetown, Saturday, Feb. 7, 2026. THE CANADIAN PRESS/Mike Bernard

CHARLOTTETOWN — Prince Edward Island Premier Rob Lantz has removed his economic development minister from cabinet.

Lantz issued a statement Saturday saying the removal followed a review of how Gilles Arsenault handled a permitting issue during his term as environment minister.

The premier says Arsenault made a serious error of judgment, but no other details were released.

Arsenault also served as minister responsible for Acadian and francophone affairs.

Lantz says a swearing-in ceremony is scheduled for Monday to confirm Jenn Redmond as the new minister of economic development, trade and artificial intelligence.

As well, the premier says Zack Bell, currently minister of workforce and advanced learning, would on Monday assume responsibility for the Acadian and francophone affairs portfolio.

“As premier, I have a responsibility to ensure all members of cabinet meet the high standards Islanders expect,” Lantz said in the statement.

Meanwhile, the ceremony Monday will also see Kent Dollar being sworn in as minister of housing and communities following the March 17 death of Mark McLane, who was health minister.

This report by The Canadian Press was first published March 28, 2026.