Justice and Public Safety
March 02, 2017

Minister Parsons Requests Nova Scotia Agency to Review Royal Newfoundland Constabulary Sergeant’s Conduct

The following statement was issued today by the Honourable Andrew Parsons, Minister of Justice and Public Safety and Attorney General:

“I firmly believe that in serious incidents involving police, civilian oversight is necessary to maintain public confidence in the administration of justice. It is equally important that we provide a high level of transparency and accountability as we deal with serious incidents that involve our police agencies. As such, I have requested that the Nova Scotia Serious Incident Response Team (SIRT) conduct an independent, external review and investigation into matters related to the conduct of Sergeant Tim Buckle respecting his involvement in a Royal Newfoundland Constabulary’s investigation into the actions of RNC Constable Sean Kelly. The SIRT mandate will encompass a review and investigation of all matters pertaining to the conduct of Sergeant Buckle in respect of this matter along with the resulting investigations.

“To ensure the public have full confidence in our police agencies, I remain committed to bringing forward legislation in the House of Assembly this year to establish a Serious Incident Response Team for Newfoundland and Labrador.”

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Media contact:

Lesley Clarke Director of Communications (A) Department of Justice and Public Safety 709-729-6985, 699-2910 LesleyClarke@gov.nl.ca

2017 03 02                              1:40 p.m.