Watermark Theatre fundraiser a conflict for premier, Opposition suggests

P.E.I. Premier Wade MacLauchlan is in a conflict of interest by hosting a fundraising dinner for the Watermark Theatre in North Rustico, suggests Opposition MLA Steven Myers.

Wade MacLauchlan and his partner Duncan McIntosh offered to prepare dinner for six guests in their home. The dinner went to an online auction, and fetched more than a thousand dollars for the theatre.

There may be some members opposite who'd be willing to take on that mortgage.- Premier Wade MacLauchlan

According to his conflict of interest disclosure, the premier holds the mortgage on the theatre building.

"Do you recognize how this could be perceived as a conflict of interest participating in a fundraiser with an event for a group that you have a financial relationship with?" Myers asked the premier in the legislature Tuesday.

"I'm very happy to say that my relationship with the Watermark Theatre is fully philanthropic," MacLauchlan responded.

"There may be some members opposite who'd be willing to take on that mortgage if they're so inclined."

Premier has worked with other charities

MacLauchlan said he's prepared to provide details of the mortgage in the provincial legislature.

He added he has put on similar fundraisers since becoming premier for other groups, including the Queen Elizabeth Hospital and Island Nature Trust.

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