The New Brunswick government is introducing a new measure to improve mental health care in the province. The provincial Liberals introduced new legislation to create a dedicated mental health advocate. This move fulfills a recent campaign promise and aims to ensure you and your family receive the support you need without facing gaps in the system.

What the New Role Entails

Justice Minister Robert McKee announced the legislation on Wednesday. He stated the role will provide systemic reviews of situations to prevent failures in care.

If the bill passes, Kelly Lamrock will take on the new responsibilities starting in January 2027. Lamrock currently serves as the provincial advocate for children, youth, older adults, and people with disabilities.

The province allocated an additional $300,000 to support the increased workload. Lamrock told reporters he is ready to multitask and already has access to the people who guide this work.

He clarified that the office acts in a quasi judicial capacity rather than as legal counsel. This means he holds the authority to review actions taken by government departments and determine what is right and wrong.

Community and Political Reactions

The announcement drew praise from local advocates, though some politicians noted areas for improvement.

Local mental health advocate Paul Oullet celebrated the news. He noted he waited ten years for this announcement. However, Oullet expressed a desire for the position to operate as a completely independent office.

Green Party Leader David Coon shared this view. “That is the one discouraging thing, that it wasn’t created as a standalone office for the mental health advocate. It’s a big job,” Coon said.

Despite political differences, newly elected Progressive Conservative Leader Daniel Allain called the bill a good announcement.

Ability NB executive director Haley Flaro pointed out that Lamrock already performs many of these duties unofficially. She emphasized the importance of the role. “With the current fiscal situation that the province is facing and families are facing, the stresses are impacting people. So having someone to help navigate the right services and supports is really essential,” Flaro said.

Read the full original report on CTV News Atlantic.

Frequently Asked Questions

Who will be the new mental health advocate?

If the legislation passes, Kelly Lamrock will assume the role. He currently advocates for children, youth, seniors, and people with disabilities in New Brunswick.

When does the new role begin?

The mental health advocate position officially starts in January 2027.

What exactly does a mental health advocate do?

The advocate runs a quasi judicial office. They review the actions of government departments regarding mental health services and identify systemic issues to ensure patients receive proper care.

Is this a brand new independent office?

No. The role is added to Kelly Lamrock’s existing mandates. Some advocates and politicians expressed disappointment that the government did not create a standalone office for this specific issue.