New requirements for cabinet ministers and all elected officials to publicly release detailed copies of their travel and hospitality expenses will increase transparency and accountability to taxpayers.

Premier Wade MacLauchlan announced that these requirements will be extended to deputy ministers, CEOs and senior advisors. The Premier is requesting that the Legislative Management Committee take immediate steps to require all Members of the Legislative Assembly to adhere to the same standards.

The requirements will include the disclosure of detailed copies of expenses, including travel, hospitality, and meals, monthly. They will be posted clearly on the government’s website.

The postings will list the actual items expensed, including the date, purpose and location of the expenses. This signals a new direction promoting transparency and accountability within government.

“Prince Edward Islanders are understandably concerned about the need to live within our means, and elected officials and senior advisors must lead by example,” said the Premier. “Any expenses incurred must be justifiable and have a value to taxpayers.”