FREDERICTON (GNB) – The COVID-19 pandemic has resulted in a delay of the selection process for the 2020 Order of New Brunswick.

The provincial government typically announces the annual recipients on New Brunswick Day.

“With New Brunswick Day fast approaching our residents may be expecting to hear an announcement of this year’s recipients of the Order of New Brunswick,” said Premier Blaine Higgs. “Unfortunately, due to COVID-19 our selection process has been delayed, but we still intend to recognize individuals deserving of this honour before the end of the year.”

Nominations for the order closed on April 15. Under normal circumstances, the order’s advisory council meets in the spring to review the nominations. A meeting was unable to take place due to restrictions related to COVID-19. The meeting will now be held in the fall followed by the announcement of this year’s recipients in late October or November.

The Order of New Brunswick is the highest honour awarded by the province. Established in 2000, it honours and celebrates the achievements of New Brunswickers who have contributed to the economic, cultural and social development of the province. Since its inception, more than 170 people have been invested into the order.

More information about the order, submission of nominations, and members is available online.