Province launches independent review of Island Regulatory and Appeals Commission

The province is launching an independent review of the Island Regulatory and Appeals Commission.

Rory Francis has been appointed as Commissioner to lead the review.

The review will examine IRAC’s role, structure, and responsibilities, including matters related to energy regulation, land protection, transparency, and appeals processes. It will also consider models in other jurisdictions and provide recommendations for government’s consideration.

“As Prince Edward Island continues to grow and change, it is important that our public institutions evolve alongside it. This review will help ensure our regulatory framework remains transparent, effective, and responsive to the challenges and opportunities ahead.”

-Premier Rob Lantz 

As part of the review, the Commissioner is expected to engage with Islanders, stakeholders, and subject matter experts to gather information necessary to support the review.

The review is expected to conclude with a final report and recommendations to government this November.

Media contact:
Emily Blue
Office of the Premier 
emilyblue@gov.pe.ca 

Backgrounder

Rory Francis is a respected Canadian leader in agriculture, bioscience, and economic development, with more than 40 years of experience across the public, private, and not-for-profit sectors.

Mr. Francis began his career in the Government of Prince Edward Island, where he held several deputy minister positions, including portfolios in Environment, Agriculture and Forestry, Fisheries and Aquaculture, and Health and Social Services.

In 2005, he became the founding Chief Executive Officer of the Prince Edward Island BioAlliance, a not-for-profit organization focused on building a bioscience cluster in the province. Under his leadership, the sector expanded significantly to include more than 60 companies spanning biopharmaceuticals, natural products, and animal health, and became a major contributor to the provincial economy. 

Mr. Francis is widely recognized for his ability to bring together industry, academic, and government partners to translate research into commercial success. His contributions have been recognized nationally, including his induction into the Canadian Agricultural Hall of Fame in 2023 and receipt of the Purvis Memorial Award for leadership in Canada’s chemical and life sciences industries.