New Brunswick

The New Brunswick Human Rights Act (NBHRA) sanctions discrimination in employment, housing, public services such as schools, stores, hotels, hospitals, police and most government services, advertising and some associations.

The New Brunswick Human Rights Commission (Commission) is a government agency responsible for implementing the principles of the Commission, developing and directing educational programs to eliminate discriminatory practices, and administering the intake and complaint resolution process.

What are the prohibited grounds of discrimination? Race, colour, religion, national origin, ancestry, place of origin, age, physical disability, mental disability, marital status, family status, sexual orientation, sex, gender identity or expression, social condition or political belief or activity.

What are the deadlines for filing a complaint? The complaint must be filed within one year of the alleged discrimination or the last incident in the case of a continuing violation.

What is the procedure? The Commission first offers a mediation service. If the first mediation is unsuccessful, then an investigation will be initiated. If there is not a sufficient basis for the complaint, it will be dismissed. If not, the Commission may request that further efforts be made to resolve the complaint.  If appropriate, the Board may also refer the complaint to the New Brunswick Labour and Employment Board. This is a separate Board that may also act as a party to the complaint hearing.

How do I file a complaint? To file a complaint, you must complete the four online forms available here and then email them to the Board (hrc.cdp@gnb.ca)

What compensation can you get? The Labour and Employment Board can order a variety of remedies, such as appropriate accommodation, compensation for expenses or lost wages caused by the discrimination, a public letter of apology, or compensation for injury to dignity, feelings or self-respect.

This content has been updated on 4 March 2023 at 11 h 08 min.