You expect your local police force to maintain a safe and respectful environment for everyone. Following a recent review, the Saint John Police Force is updating its workplace conduct policy. WorkSafeNB recommended clearer and more consistent staff training on violence and harassment.

This review comes after nine officers filed conduct complaints against Chief Robert Bruce over an 11 week period. According to a report from CBC News, the New Brunswick Police Association publicly asked WorkSafeNB to investigate if the police board complied with the Occupational Health and Safety Act.

What WorkSafeNB Found

WorkSafeNB spokesperson Lynn Meahan Carson stated the review found the existing code compliant with the act. However, the agency identified clear opportunities for improvement. They recommended consistent staff training on violence and harassment. They also advised the force to conduct regular refreshers and keep proper records. Furthermore, WorkSafeNB suggested the police force formally review its workplace code at least once a year.

Changes to the Policy

The police board took action based on these recommendations. Police board chairperson Tamara Kelly confirmed the Saint John Police Force Workplace Conduct Policy is now the Saint John Police Force Respectful Workplace Policy. The board amended the policy to clarify that complaints against civilian employees follow the requirements set out in the general regulation of the act.

The Catalyst Behind the Review

The initial complaints against Chief Bruce sparked this entire process. An independent investigator hired by the board substantiated some allegations from two complainants. These included inappropriate comments and gestures by Bruce regarding the mental health and weight of some officers. The investigator found no evidence of harassment or a toxic work environment.

Chief Bruce stated the majority of the allegations were vexatious and dismissed. He also claimed the complaints are attacks by the police union. The union strongly denies this claim.

Union Calls for Further Investigation

Bob Davidson serves as the labour analyst for the New Brunswick Police Association. He expressed satisfaction that WorkSafeNB acknowledged the need for improvements. However, he argues the findings are outdated. Davidson wants a new review because WorkSafeNB did not have access to recently released court documents detailing the specific comments allegedly made by the chief.

The association plans to request another meeting with WorkSafeNB leadership. Davidson also renewed his call for Public Safety Minister Robert Gauvin to investigate the working conditions at the police force. Gauvin declined to comment while matters remain before independent decision makers.

Frequently Asked Questions

Why did WorkSafeNB review the Saint John Police Force?

WorkSafeNB conducted the review after nine officers filed conduct complaints against Chief Robert Bruce. The New Brunswick Police Association requested the investigation to ensure compliance with the Occupational Health and Safety Act.

What changes did WorkSafeNB recommend?

The agency recommended clearer staff training on violence and harassment. They also suggested regular training refreshers, proper record keeping, and an annual formal review of the workplace code.

How did the police board respond to the recommendations?

The board renamed the policy to the Respectful Workplace Policy. They also updated the procedures to clarify how complaints against civilian employees are handled.

Will there be another investigation?

The New Brunswick Police Association is pushing for a new review. They argue the initial WorkSafeNB findings are outdated because new details from court documents recently became public. Public Safety Minister Robert Gauvin has declined to intervene at this time.