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Access denied: NB’s Ombud says a report on Sackville’s fire department—and the recommendations stemming from it—should remain secret

A red fire truck is parked outside of the Sackville Fire and Rescue building.
Sackville Fire and Rescue. Photo by Erica Butler.
Erica Butler - CHMA - Sackville • NB | 26-04-2022
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In a recent decision, New Brunswick's Ombud has rejected a complaint from Sackville journalist Bruce Wark, and ensured that a report on the workplace culture of the Sackville Fire Department remains confidential.  Wark had requested access to the report and its 20 recommendations under the Right to Information and Protection of Privacy Act (RTIPPA), but was refused access by Town Clerk, Donna Beal, on the grounds that the report constituted a personnel or harassment investigation.

Wark first broke the story of alleged bullying and harassment at the Sackville Fire Department in spring 2021, and continues his coverage today. He says the Ombud's decision will impact his future coverage, as the town looks at ways to rectify the problems he helped expose.

Hear from Bruce Wark in this story from CHMA's Tantramar Report:

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