The provincial government will create a new position to help New Brunswickers living with mental health challenges.
Justice Minister Robert McKee, who is also minister responsible for addictions and mental health services, tabled legislation Wednesday.
Under An Act Respecting the Child, Youth, Senior and Mental Health Advocate, the advocate’s office would become the Office of the Child, Youth, Senior and Mental Health Advocate.
The office’s mandate would expand to provide independent advocacy for vulnerable New Brunswickers.
“We committed to giving New Brunswickers living with mental health challenges a strong, independent voice,” McKee said.
“No New Brunswicker should have to walk a difficult mental health journey alone.”
McKee added the advocate will assist people who may have concerns about the services they receive.
Under the proposed legislation, the advocate would be able to review concerns involving people with mental health challenges, advocate or mediate on their behalf, and assist them in processes where decisions are being made about services.
The advocate would also be able to identify systemic issues, tell the public about the needs and rights of vulnerable people and make recommendations to government and other authorities about legislation, policies and practices.
New Brunswick’s current child, youth and seniors’ advocate said the legislation further evolves the mandate of the office that was created to ensure marginalized voices were heard in legislative debates and oversight of government.
“Should the legislature vote to give us that mandate, we will work hard to develop the knowledge, expertise and community connections to do that job,” said Kelly Lamrock.
