In the first in-person leadership debate of the Green Party of Prince Edward Island’s 2025 contest, candidates Hannah Bell and Matt MacFarlane presented competing visions for the future of the party while emphasizing shared progressive values.
Held at a community venue in Summerside, the debate offered party members and the public a chance to hear directly from the two contenders ahead of the May 8 leadership vote. Moderator Greg Davis guided the 90-minute discussion through key themes including leadership, party growth, housing, climate, and healthcare.
“We are here to serve. We are here to make a change. We are here to make a difference,” said Bell during her opening statement, framing her candidacy around community organizing, lived experience, and social justice.
MacFarlane, the MLA for Borden-Kinkora since his 2024 byelection win, positioned himself as a pragmatic leader who can unite and grow the party: “What the Green Party of PEI needs at this moment is a leader who can bring people together from all walks of life.”
Shared Values, Distinct Styles
While both candidates emphasized the importance of strengthening local riding associations, supporting grassroots democracy, and fighting climate change, their leadership styles and political resumes offered contrast.
Bell, who served as an MLA from 2017 to 2023, highlighted her legislative achievements and deep ties to community organizations. She spoke extensively about her work on housing, social assistance, and anti-poverty legislation.
“If you’re in politics, you have to understand that you’re here to serve ordinary people,” she said. “Those problems are never small. They have huge impact.”
MacFarlane emphasized his legal background and decades of volunteer leadership in health and community organizations. He drew on his role in establishing a rural health clinic as an example of effective organizing.
“I know what we can do when many say it can’t be done,” said MacFarlane. “We were told we couldn’t elect an MLA. We got Peter elected. I was told I couldn’t win a rural district held by a conservative. I got elected.”
Housing and Health Front and Centre
On policy, the debate featured pointed critiques of the current government. Bell called for a shift away from emergency shelters toward long-term Housing First solutions, while MacFarlane criticized the government for ignoring land-use reform and health care worker concerns.
“You cannot begin recovery unless you are provided with a safe home that gives you dignity and privacy,” said Bell.
“We’re spending $26 million on travel nurses while local nurses are underpaid. That’s not sustainable,” said MacFarlane.
Both candidates denounced the province’s decision to pause solar energy rebates, questioned Maritime Electric’s proposed diesel plant, and pushed for faster climate action.
Reflecting on the Past, Looking to the Future
Asked about mistakes, Bell addressed a 2023 media interview during the provincial election campaign that some in the party found damaging. She acknowledged the timing was regrettable but reiterated her commitment to speaking difficult truths.
MacFarlane cited a recent oversight in not informing a municipality of a town hall meeting in advance, saying he had since apologized and learned from the experience.
Each candidate closed with a call to build on the party’s momentum and offer Islanders a bold, credible alternative to the traditional parties.
“There’s a growing hunger for political leadership that’s prepared to take clear and bold positions,” said Bell.
“Islanders are tired of red and blue,” said MacFarlane. “They want a government that listens.”
The next debate will be held in Charlottetown on May 3. Only Green Party members who sign up by April 23 are eligible to vote in the leadership race.
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