NB Police Association Challenges Chief's Union Tactic Claims

Canada - Ekhbary News Agency

The New Brunswick Police Association (NBPA) has strongly challenged Saint John Police Chief Robert Bruce's assertion that multiple workplace harassment complaints filed against him are a calculated union tactic. Chief Bruce, who has led the force since 2021, recently described the complaints, lodged last year, as "disappointing and predictable," suggesting they were timed to coincide with challenging labour relations processes. He further alleged a history of similar union tactics aimed at discrediting police management.

In response, the NBPA stated it became aware of numerous harassment allegations against Chief Bruce in September last year, emphasizing that two of the nine complaints originated from non-unionized employees. Bob Davidson, the association’s labour analyst, criticized the handling of these complaints, asserting that the majority of allegations concerning Chief Bruce and the "toxic workplace he caused" were summarily dismissed without proper investigation into their merits. Davidson highlighted that even substantiated allegations were resolved informally, leading to no discernible action. The association has escalated its concerns, reiterating its request to the provincial public safety minister for a comprehensive investigation into the chief's conduct and recent public statements, which they deem "demoralizing, disgraceful, and destructive." The dispute underscores significant tensions within the Saint John police force, raising questions about accountability and workplace culture.

Ekhbary News Agency