Committee approves bill recognizing Charlottetown as Confederation birthplace
OTTAWA — A Senate committee has approved a private member’s bill recognizing Charlottetown as the birthplace of Confederation, despite some concerns voiced by senators from other provinces.
P.E.I. Senator Diane Griffin told the legal and constitutional affairs committee Thursday that while Confederation grew out of a number of conferences, the process began in Charlottetown in 1864.
“In P.E.I. we are really proud of having hosted the first meeting of the Fathers of Confederation,” she said, adding that most visitors arrive to the island via the Confederation Bridge, and P.E.I.’s licence plate reads “Cradle of Confederation.”
Historian Ed MacDonald of the University of Prince Edward Island said having the designation is important in the teaching of Canada’s history, and for its impact on Island tourism.