The Official Opposition is raising serious concerns after Premier Rob Lantz unveiled a new cabinet this week without a dedicated Culture title in his announced Cabinet portfolios.

Robert Henderson, MLA for O’Leary–Inverness and Opposition Critic for Culture, says the omission sends the wrong message at the wrong time.

“In Prince Edward Island, culture is not an afterthought, it is who we are,” said Henderson. “It shapes our identity, strengthens our communities, and fuels a growing creative economy that supports Islanders from tip to tip. Removing Culture from cabinet titles sends a clear signal that this government does not see it as a priority.”

From heritage site preservation and historic designations to museums, festivals, music, and a thriving theatre industry, PEI’s cultural sector contributes both socially and economically. It attracts visitors, creates jobs, and helps define the Island brand across Canada and around the world.

Prince Edward Island is now the only jurisdiction in Canada — federal, provincial, or territorial — without a dedicated minister with the Culture title.

“When governments structure cabinet, they are signaling their priorities,” Henderson continued. “Choosing to drop Culture speaks volumes. At a time when our Canadian identity has been tested through questions about our sovereignty from south of the border, we need to support our local voices now more than ever, this is not the moment to sideline the very sector that tells our stories. We are Canada, and the cultural sector helps remind us of that”

The Liberals note that Island artists, performers, and cultural organizations are still recovering from pandemic disruptions, rising costs, and increasing financial pressures.

The Liberal Party of Prince Edward Island is calling on Premier Lantz to explain why Culture was removed from cabinet and to clarify how government intends to protect, promote, and invest in PEI’s cultural sector moving forward.

“Prince Edward Island is the birthplace of this nation. Our culture sector is central to our identity and our global story. Islanders deserve clarity on whether this government will stand up for our heritage and creative economy,” Henderson concluded.