FREDERICTON (GNB) – Amendments to the Police Act tabled today are designed to modernize the effectiveness of municipal and regional police forces and to safeguard the professionalism of police officers.
“This legislation addresses a number of issues that have been in various stages of discussion and consultation for years,” said Justice and Public Safety Minister Hugh J. Flemming. “It is imperative that we strengthen the Police Act to ensure confidence, respect and trust in our municipal and regional police services. For this reason, we are pleased to bring these amendments forward.”
Among the provisions outlined in An Act Respecting the Police Act is a proposed model related to suspension with and without pay, and changes to the overall time limits for the processing and arbitration of a complaint under the act. This includes a maximum 180-day time limit for paid suspension after which suspension without pay commences.
The amendments would also allow a civilian employee of a police force to be appointed as a court liaison officer and to have the powers and immunities of a police officer only for the purpose of performing this role.
The amendments would also establish the long-standing Municipal Police Assistance Fund as a special purpose account. The fund provides for special policing needs such as training, equipment and special projects.
“These proposed amendments are the result of collaboration and engagement with our stakeholders, including civic authorities, the New Brunswick Association of Chiefs of Police, the New Brunswick Police Association representing police officers, and the New Brunswick Police Commission,” said Flemming. “These changes reflect best practices, address the need for increased transparency in police governance and service delivery, and would help maintain public confidence in the ability to deal with police disciplinary matters.”
The Police Act was originally passed in 1977 and was last amended in 2008.
11-05-21