Herb Dickieson gets nod to run for Island New Democrats in O’Leary-Inverness

O'LEARY, P.E.I. — Herb Dickieson is barreling out of the gate as the first candidate from any P.E.I. party nominated to run in the 2023 provincial election.

Dickieson, who is retired from a 30-year career as a rural general practice physician, was nominated on Friday, Nov. 18 to represent the Island New Democrats in the O'Leary-Inverness district. He previously served one term as MLA for the same district from 1996 to 2000 and served as leader of the Island New Democrats.

“All Islanders deserve a better deal from their government and from their politicians, and I am confident that every Island New Democrat elected in the next election will fight for that better deal; One that will focus on fixing the broken health care system, in particular our rural hospitals and emergency rooms, making life more affordable, tackling our housing crisis and building a reliable and affordable rural fibre internet system,” said Dickieson.

During his tenure as MLA, Dickieson promoted many programs, including a universally accessible Island kindergarten program in the public school system, a call-back program to ensure job security for seasonal employees, a provincial ombudsperson to protect the human rights of Islanders and the defence of rural health care.

Aside from his medical practice, Dickieson has served on several community and provincial organizations, including with the Royal Canadian Legion, the West Prince Chamber of Commerce, the Emergency Measures Organization, the task force on Island education and as president of the P.E.I. Medical Society. He has also previously advocated for the UPEI medical school.

"I'm delighted to have Dr. Herb running in 2023. He knows what it takes to win and knows his community,” said Island New Democrat Leader Michelle Neill.

“Dr. Herb listens to people and understands the real problems facing everyday Islanders."