News release

Province Announces an Independent Investigative Unit

Justice

The province is developing an independent investigative unit for Nova Scotia's police system, Justice Minister Ross Landry announced today, Nov. 24.

"We are ready to move forward developing a program to bring our justice system to the level of accountability that Nova Scotians have asked for," said Mr. Landry. "We want a model that Nova Scotians trust and can be proud of. Pride in our justice system and accountability to those we serve is what this government continues to strive for."

The province is improving its supervision of the police system and will develop a more accountable and transparent model to investigating police actions when necessary.

"It is our intent to support this new program by funding up to seven positions to ensure a faster process and a team of investigators that can cover all of Nova Scotia," said Mr. Landry.

The province is consulting with the other Atlantic provinces, police agencies and interested groups to develop a model for an Atlantic or a provincial special investigative unit that is arms length from law enforcement agencies.

"From a provincial police perspective, this is a step in the right direction," said Nova Scotia RCMP Chief Superintendent Blair McKnight. "The RCMP is very supportive of enhanced independent review. We look forward to working with the province in developing a model that works for Nova Scotians and ensures a process that is both accountable and transparent."

"Halifax Regional Police fully supports the concept of an independent investigative unit, which will place investigations of serious incidents involving police at arm's length and provide a board that is independent of police agencies," said Halifax Regional Police Chief Frank Beazley. "This process will help to ensure impartiality and transparency and bolster the public's confidence in police."

Many other provinces have independent investigative units that investigate serious incidents, including death or serious injury or public interest concern, resulting from the actions of a police officer, and possibly of correctional officers and sheriffs.