News Release

FREDERICTON (GNB) – Former Official Languages Commissioner Michel A. Carrier has been appointed as the interim commissioner, Premier Brian Gallant announced today.

His appointment will be effective on July 23 while an independent process selects a replacement for Katherine d’Entremont who will retire on July 22 after 37 years in public service. She was appointed commissioner of official languages on June 14, 2013.

“I thank Michel Carrier for accepting the interim position of official languages commissioner,” Gallant said. “His past experience as New Brunswick’s first official languages commissioner provides him with a deep understanding of official language rights, obligations and responsibilities.”

Originally from Edmundston, Carrier served as commissioner from 2003 to 2013. He also served on the board of Dialogue New Brunswick for five years, and was the executive director of the Law Society of New Brunswick for 15 years.

Leader of the Official Opposition Blaine Higgs and Green Party leader David Coon were consulted on the appointment of Carrier.

The position of commissioner of official languages was established in 2002 under the Official Languages Act. The commissioner reports to the legislature and is responsible for an annual report to the legislative assembly. The commissioner is mandated to investigate complaints under the Official Languages Act, to report on and make recommendations on compliance with the act, and to promote the advancement of both official languages in the province.