New Brunswick Police Watchdog Establishes First Indigenous Investigator Position

New Brunswick’s police watchdog agency has established its first Indigenous investigator position, marking a significant step toward increasing Indigenous representation in police oversight. The Serious Incident Response Team (SIRT), which operates across Nova Scotia and New Brunswick, created the Indigenous liaison officer and investigator role following sustained calls for change from First Nations leaders. The agency investigates serious incidents involving police, including deaths, injuries, and sexual assaults. According to reporting from CBC News on 23 July 2026, the new position was developed in collaboration with First Nations leadership, community members, the Wolastoqey Nation in New Brunswick, and Mi’gmawe’l Tplu’taqnn Incorporated. SIRT Director Erin Nauss stated that the role is intended to strengthen relationships and build integrity within investigations involving Indigenous communities. The successful candidate will provide strategic advice, engage with communities, and conduct parts of criminal investigations. Ross Perley, Chief of Neqotkuk, welcomed the development, noting that the chiefs were satisfied with the job description drafted by SIRT. Chief Perley highlighted that having Indigenous representation within the office helps remediate concerns regarding credibility and conflicts of interest. The creation of this role addresses one of Neqotkuk’s seven calls to action following the fatal shooting of Bronson Paul, a Wolastoqew man, in January. While the move aims to restore faith in the investigative process, Chief Perley noted that it is part of a broader push for Indigenous-led safety initiatives. These include calls for provincial and federal support for peacekeepers to assist with wellness checks and a transition toward Indigenous-led policing services. Nauss emphasized that the new position will bring necessary confidence to the agency's work by ensuring Indigenous perspectives are integrated into the oversight of law enforcement.