AJAs 2017 Finalists
Attachments
| Slug/Label | |
|---|---|
| Date Aired or Published | March 1, 2023 |
| Media outlet where first aired or published: | Eastern Graphic |
| Name of Program: | |
| If co-produced, list partner: | |
| Location: | |
| List awards, grants: | |
| Running time (TV/Radio): | |
|
Short explanation of the story and how it developed: Prince Edward Island has a problem. For decades our population aged while our birth rate stagnated. Politicians ignored the issue until it was far too late. Immigration became necessary to operate everything from hospitals to coffee shops. Amish purchased unused farmland. A large contingent of Buddhist nuns and monks now call eastern PEI home, as do many adherents and parents of those training to become nuns and monks. Some view these new Islanders with scepticism over why they chose PEI. During COVID many former Islanders returned home. Many others arrived from other parts of Canada or North America. They saw PEI as a safe haven. The record population growth has stretched health care capabilities and is also a contributor to the soaring price of housing and rental costs. (The primary reason is housing was ignored for decades). A vocal few blame many of our issues on New Canadians. Some of the same voices also loudly protest against any form of diversity. Ordinary citizens who try counter their often inaccurate arguments are vilified on social media. Many Islanders are scared to say anything. Paul MacNeill is not. In his column, Haters will never win, MacNeill gave voice to the majority of Islanders who are supportive of diversity and inclusion. His column was shared hundreds of times and read more than 25,000 times. Not bad for a province with a then population of 170,000. His words made a difference to those routinely attacked for no other reason than the colour of their skin or sexuality. In a small town, in a small province it takes courage to stand in front of a loud mob. MacNeill did. |
|
|
Resources of the newsroom (money and time) available to complete the story: |
|