Justice Minister commits to strengthening police oversight

Justice and Public Safety Minister Helen Conway Ottenheimer says the provincial government is moving ahead with plans to strengthen police oversight through a more transparent and independent framework.

In a statement, Conway Ottenheimer said the government intends to implement community-driven civilian oversight of police services, including the creation of an independent police board.

She said the proposed board would be civilian-led, politically neutral and reflective of the province’s diverse communities.

“Our goal is to implement community-driven civilian oversight of police services, including establishing an independent police board,” the minister said.

Conway Ottenheimer said consultations with stakeholders will be a key part of shaping the new oversight model. She said she has been meeting with stakeholders since taking on the role to gather input on the future structure.

The Department of Justice and Public Safety is examining oversight models used in other jurisdictions and will adopt an approach suited to Newfoundland and Labrador’s policing structure, she said.

The government also plans to conduct a review of the Law Enforcement Oversight Commission Act to determine whether it remains appropriate and effective for the province’s needs.

Conway Ottenheimer said the new oversight framework is intended to complement the work of the province’s Serious Incident Response Team, known as SIRT NL, rather than duplicate its mandate.

She said the government’s goal is to establish an oversight system that strengthens public confidence in policing while supporting officers and communities across the province.

“Taking the time now to ensure the Act is comprehensive will lead to stronger long-term outcomes and a trusted police oversight system,” Conway Ottenheimer said.