Public inquiry into PNP possible: minister

Innovation Minister Allan Campbell is not ruling out a public inquiry into the Provincial Nominee Program, and in particular the immigrant investor section of it.

The auditor general's report, released last week, is highly critical of the program of the immigrant partner program as it existed from 2001 to September of last year. The program is currently suspended as the province considers what to do about changes made by the federal government.

In the legislature Wednesday, Campbell suggested there is more work that needs to be done.

"My only concern, maybe, is that we should have done maybe a little more in-depth review of the program," he said.

"Probably dating back to its inception in 2001, because the information that's come to light in the last week or so, Madame Speaker, indicates the previous administration really didn't have much of an idea of what was happening inside the program."

Outside the legislature, the minister opened the door to the possibility of a public inquiry.

"That's a discussion I'd have with the premier. The premier has discretion around public inquiries," said Campbell.

"I heard comments in the media this morning actually about public inquiries and the investment of taxpayers dollars. What does it accomplish at the end of the day? It's possible it could bring something new to light. Perhaps not."

Opposition leader Olive Crane and NDP Leader James Rodd are both pushing for a public inquiry. Crane said it's the only way Islanders will be able to see how badly the program has been mismanaged over the years.