Prince Edward Island’s Premier, Rob Lantz, is urging the federal RCMP and Canada’s anti-money-laundering agency to initiate thorough and transparent investigations into claims of foreign interference and money laundering involving specific Buddhist groups on the island. Lantz’s request for further scrutiny follows statements made last week during a press conference on Parliament Hill by a former solicitor general and a former RCMP superintendent, hinting at potential incriminating information that warrants a criminal probe.
The premier’s office recently dispatched letters to RCMP Commissioner Michael Duheme and FINTRAC CEO Sarah Paquet, pressing the federal agencies to delve into longstanding allegations surrounding two distinct Buddhist organizations in eastern P.E.I. The letters highlighted concerns about the activities of these groups and hinted at assertions that Prince Edward Island may have been utilized as a base for the Chinese Communist Party.
GEBIS, one of the implicated Buddhist entities, has voiced support for the call for investigation, emphasizing the importance of a transparent inquiry to address groundless accusations and provide clarity. The town where these groups are situated, Three Rivers, has also expressed backing for the federal investigation, underscoring the need for transparency and accountability in land ownership and economic activities.
The province had earlier initiated an investigation into land holdings, pinpointing the Great Wisdom Buddhist Institute (GWBI) and the Great Enlightenment Buddhist Institute Society (GEBIS) due to their substantial land possessions in the region. The results of this investigation, conducted by the Island Regulatory and Appeals Commission, are expected to be made public.
Darlene Compton, Minister of Economic Development, Innovation, and Trade, and MLA for Belfast-Murray River, emphasized the significance of federal involvement in the probe, citing limits to the province’s authority in addressing Islanders’ concerns. Compton stressed the need for authorities to lead the investigation and ensure transparency in the process.
Premier Lantz reiterated the government’s commitment to collaborating with federal agencies to conduct a comprehensive investigation and provide clarity to Islanders. He urged patience and trust in the established legal processes to address the allegations, emphasizing the importance of maintaining a secure and welcoming environment on Prince Edward Island.