Province announces moratorium on evictions

The Province confirms today that eviction orders will not be enforced during the COVID-19 pandemic.

The Office of the Attorney General filed a notice of application to the Supreme Court of Prince Edward Island on March 26, 2020 seeking to suspend the enforcement of eviction orders to protect the health and safety of both Island tenants and sheriffs who are responsible for the enforcement of eviction orders. 

On April 1, 2020, the Supreme Court of PEI held a hearing and a decision was made to support this application to suspend enforcement of eviction orders until the courts can resume regular operations.

Anyone seeking an order for an eviction must follow the procedures of the Director or the Island Regulatory and Appeals Commission. On March 30, 2020, the Commission advised the public that the Rental Office will not hold hearings for non-payment of rent. It will only hold hearings for urgent matters, such as serious threats to the health and safety of tenants and landlords.

“The COVID-19 pandemic has touched the lives of Islanders, Canadians and everyone around the world. During these difficult times, we know that it is filled with many challenges,” said Bloyce Thompson, Minister of Justice and Public Safety and Attorney General of Prince Edward Island. “With so much unknowns, government was looking for a temporary solution that would address the housing concerns of many Islanders.”

“We appreciate the Court’s decision today. We recognize that this is not a complete solution but it is one of the many measures we are considering as part of our provincial response. As the situation continues to evolve, government will continue to adapt,” added Minister Thompson. “These decisions are not made lightly and it continues to be a delicate balance between, at times, conflicting interests.”

Media contact:
Amanda Hamel
Executive Director, Communications and Public Affairs
Office of the Premier
(902) 368-4400
ahamel@gov.pe.ca