FREDERICTON (GNB) – The process to fill two legislative officer positions is underway. Competitions for the commissioner of official languages and the integrity commissioner were announced today.

“Legislative officers help hold government to account by providing a strong, independent voice for New Brunswickers,” said Premier Blaine Higgs. “We are committed to using a fair and transparent process to find and appoint the most qualified candidates for these jobs.”

A selection committee has been established to identify qualified candidates and to submit a list to the lieutenant-governor in council for these two positions. The selection committee is comprised of:

  • Jean-Marc Dupuis, chief operating officer and clerk of the Executive Council
  • Lucie LaVigne, New Brunswick Court of Appeal
  • Gilles Côté, sergeant-at-arms
  • Lily Fraser, vice-president of finance and administration at St. Thomas University

The committee has held its first meeting.

Interested individuals have until Aug. 14 to apply for these positions. The applications, along with information on the qualifications and conditions for the positions, are available online.

Former Official Languages Commissioner Michel A. Carrier will continue to serve as the interim commissioner while the independent process unfolds. Ombud Charles Murray is serving as the interim integrity commissioner and will continue to do so until the selection process is complete.

Established in 2002 under the Official Languages Act, the commissioner of official languages reports to the legislature. The commissioner is mandated to promote the advancement of both official languages in the province and to investigate complaints under the Official Languages Act, and to report on and make recommendations on compliance with the act.

The integrity commissioner was established in December 2016 when the Integrity Commissioner Act was adopted. The Office of the Integrity Commissioner strives to encourage and sustain a culture of integrity and accountability. It is responsible for administering the Members’ Conflict of Interest Act, the Conflict of Interest Act and the Lobbyists’ Registration Act.

 

23-07-19