New Brunswick’s housing minister faces an accusation of potential conflict of interest, drawing attention to the regulations governing legislators highlighted by previous provincial oversight bodies. Glen Savoie, the acting leader of the Progressive Conservatives in New Brunswick, has raised concerns about David Hickey’s dual role as a landlord of an anti-homelessness organization in Saint John and the possibility of this group receiving provincial funding.
While Savoie did not outright claim that Hickey was violating any rules, he emphasized the potential perception of conflict that could arise from their arrangement. He pointed out that the group being a tenant of Hickey might give them preferential treatment in securing financial support, potentially diverting funds from other deserving organizations.
Notably, the Members Conflict of Interest Act does not currently address perceived or apparent conflicts of interest, despite recommendations from previous legislative officers urging their inclusion. Savoie suggested that Hickey’s involvement could create both real and perceived conflicts, although he clarified that it was more about the perception of impropriety rather than concrete violations.
Hickey, on the other hand, stated that his relationship with Fresh Start Services had been vetted and approved by integrity commissioner Charles Murray. He affirmed that he had taken extra precautions to ensure compliance beyond legal requirements to avoid any semblance of conflict.
The legislation governing conflicts of interest for lawmakers is narrowly defined, prohibiting them from making decisions that may further their own or someone else’s private interests knowingly or reasonably. Calls to incorporate apparent conflicts into the act have been ongoing, with former integrity commissioner Alexandre Deschenes and his predecessor advocating for this change in successive reports.
Despite past incidents prompting resignations and recusals due to potential conflicts, the law has not been updated to explicitly cover apparent conflicts. While Premier Susan Holt defended the current clarity of the legislation, she indicated openness to considering recommendations for future amendments.
Savoie raised additional concerns about a potential conflict due to Hickey’s relative working in the nonprofit housing sector. However, Holt emphasized the importance of regular reviews to ensure compliance with existing laws and indicated a willingness to explore updates in the future based on expert advice.
Hickey confirmed the involvement of his aunt, Kit Hickey, as the executive director of Housing Alternatives Inc., a nonprofit offering support services in Saint John. He mentioned allocating funding to one of the organization’s clients but assured that he had not recused himself from any related decisions since assuming office.
Finance Minister René Legacy, with interests in a local brewery, disclosed that he abstained from discussions on alcohol importation changes that could impact craft producers in New Brunswick positively.
Overall, the ongoing debate highlights the need for a comprehensive framework addressing both actual and perceived conflicts of interest among lawmakers in New Brunswick.