P.E.I. Senator Percy Downe has introduced a notice of inquiry in the Senate on the decentralization of government and will deliver a speech in the upper house on the topic within the next few weeks. Downe says that for too long, bureaucratic power has been tightly centralized in the hands of a small group of institutions, closely concentrated in the national capital region.

He said he thinks that now is the time for the federal government to separate policy from process and to decentralize federal departments, agencies and Crown corporations away from the national capital to the regions of Canada.

“Does it make sense for the employees of the Department of Fisheries and Oceans to be located in downtown Ottawa, where they can’t see a harbour or a fishing boat?” Downe asked. “Or does it make more sense for them to be located on one of Canada’s coasts, where they can see the impact of their decisions on fishing communities and their residents more directly?”

He said the initial upfront costs of relocation are recouped many times over and in many different ways. The regions receiving the relocation secure well-paying, permanent positions, reducing the need for ongoing regional development.

The P.E.I. senator says the affected departments or agencies reduce staff turnover, saving recruitment and training costs. In addition, the government of Canada has a permanent and strong presence in the area, helping to reduce the stresses of regional alienation.

Citing the relocation of the Veterans Affairs headquarters to Charlottetown as an example, Downe pointed out the economic and social impact decentralization can have in the regions of Canada. Veterans Affairs has brought to Prince Edward Island 1, 200 full-time jobs, a $68-million yearly payroll, many student jobs during the summer and a career path for future generations who want to stay in the region.

“Now is the time for the prime minister to restart the decentralization process and give the other regions of Canada the same opportunities, and benefits, enjoyed by Prince Edward Island over the past 28 years.” Downe said.