A commissioner tasked with engaging all stakeholders to develop an understanding of the nature and impact of systemic racism in the province will be appointed by the provincial government.

Aboriginal Affairs Minister Arlene Dunn, who is also minister responsible for immigration said “We acknowledge that systemic racism exists here in New Brunswick and we want to better understand people’s experiences, its impact and what we can do about it. The appointment of an independent commissioner will result in timely recommendations, which will allow us to take prudent action to address this problem. We expect a report from this process within 12 months that will provide the government with specific actions to build a foundation for meaningful change.”

It is expected a commissioner will be identified and in place in the next three months.

The commissioner will produce a final report by March 31, 2022 with recommendations for the government on the development of a provincial strategy and an action plan to address sector concerns such as: barriers to opportunity; equitable access to programs and services; and systemic racism in health care, education, social development, housing, employment and criminal justice. The commissioner may also identify and address other sectors that impact these designated groups. The final report will be a public document.

The provincial government will fund the costs related to establishing a commissioner and their work, estimated at $500,000.