About the Commission

The Commission is an independent tribunal that hears appeals on issues relating to land use, property and revenue (sales) tax and unsightly premises. It administers land ownership legislation in Prince Edward Island and regulates the petroleum industry and automobile insurance rates.

The Commission regulates electric utilities and certain water and wastewater utilities in Prince Edward Island and hears and considers appeals from decisions or orders of the Director of Residential Rental Property (Rentalsman). The Commission also has limited jurisdiction over the rates charged by Island Waste Management Corporation. The Commission is responsible for conducting public hearings with respect to municipal boundary extensions, pursuant to subsection 12(1) of the Municipalities Act.

The Island Regulatory and Appeals Commission, or "IRAC" as it is commonly known in Prince Edward Island, was established in 1991 following the amalgamation of the former Public Utilities Commission, Land Use Commission and the Office of the Director of Residential Rental Property (Rentalsman). The Commission operates at arms-length from the Provincial Government. It has three full-time and up to five part-time Commissioners and a staff complement of 20.

The Commission reports to the Legislative Assembly of Prince Edward Island through the Minister of Education, Early Learning and Culture.

Page last reviewed or updated: January 12, 2017