Prince Edward Island Premier Rob Lantz has urged the federal RCMP and Canada’s anti-money-laundering agency to launch immediate and transparent probes into allegations of foreign interference and money laundering involving specific Buddhist groups on the Island. Lantz’s call for further investigation follows recent statements made during a press conference in Ottawa by a former solicitor general and a former RCMP superintendent, indicating the existence of information warranting a criminal inquiry. Lantz emphasized the importance of addressing Islanders’ concerns and separating facts from speculation.
In letters addressed to RCMP Commissioner Michael Duheme and FINTRAC CEO Sarah Paquet, the premier’s office highlighted allegations regarding two Buddhist groups in eastern P.E.I. that have been circulating for years. The letters emphasized the need for federal departments to examine claims of foreign interference responsibly and through established legal processes, rather than speculation.
The letters underscored the gravity of the allegations and the importance of verifying them through thorough review by relevant federal authorities. While emphasizing the importance of transparency, fairness, and community trust, the premier’s office urged federal agencies to handle the matter diligently.
The Great Enlightenment Buddhist Institute Society (GEBIS), one of the groups under scrutiny, expressed support for the investigation, welcoming the opportunity to address groundless accusations and provide clarity. GEBIS pledged full cooperation with the authorities and emphasized the need for evidence-based investigations to dispel rumors and discrimination.
The Town of Three Rivers, where the Buddhist organizations are situated, endorsed the call for a federal investigation, emphasizing the need for transparency and accountability in upholding public confidence in democratic institutions and land ownership integrity. Government officials and community leaders expressed concerns about the impact of unverified allegations on public trust and stressed the importance of leaving investigations to the appropriate authorities.
As the investigation progresses, Premier Lantz reiterated the government’s commitment to collaborating with federal agencies to conduct a comprehensive inquiry and share relevant information with Islanders. Encouraging patience and trust in the investigative process, Lantz emphasized the importance of providing clarity and maintaining Prince Edward Island’s reputation as a safe and welcoming environment.
Overall, the calls for federal investigations into alleged foreign interference and money laundering involving Buddhist groups on Prince Edward Island reflect a commitment to upholding transparency and addressing public concerns through thorough and responsible scrutiny.
