Review Finds Structural Issues in Prince Edward Island Regulatory Commission

Commissioner Rory Francis conducted a review of the Island Regulatory and Appeals Commission (IRAC) in Prince Edward Island. IRAC was created in 1991 by merging several bodies, including the Public Utilities Commission and the Land Use Commission. The review found that the structure, which has not changed since 1991, is struggling to keep pace with the needs of the island in 2026. Issues cited include planning appeals costing up to $25,000 and taking over a year to resolve, which can freeze development.

The review found that trust between IRAC and Island residents has eroded. The commission handles critical functions such as setting electricity rates, adjudicating landlord-tenant disputes, and reviewing land transactions. Delays of months for rental decisions and land transactions are common issues facing the island.