New Brunswick Government Fights Court Order, Withholding Key Cabinet Documents for Monica Sock Inquest

The New Brunswick government is once again embroiled in a legal battle over transparency, appealing a court order that demands the disclosure of unredacted cabinet documents for the coroner's inquest into the tragic death of Monica Sock. This high-stakes dispute centers on the government's decision to discontinue a vital medically assisted treatment (MAT) program in Indigenous communities, particularly within the Elsipogtog First Nation.

Monica Sock, an Elsipogtog resident, tragically died in 2022 after being transferred from her community to Moncton Hospital.

Her family and community leaders firmly believe that the lack of a local MAT program, which had been previously available, significantly contributed to her death. The coroner's inquest aims to thoroughly investigate the circumstances surrounding her passing, including delving into the government's rationale behind ending the crucial treatment program.

The documents in question are believed to contain the deliberations and decisions made by cabinet ministers regarding the discontinuation of the MAT program.

For Chief George Ginnish of Elsipogtog First Nation, full disclosure is paramount. He has vocally stressed the community's need to understand how and why such a critical service was withdrawn, emphasizing that transparency is essential for accountability and to prevent similar tragedies in the future.

However, the New Brunswick government argues vehemently against releasing these documents, citing cabinet confidentiality.

They contend that disclosing such information would undermine the principle of cabinet solidarity, potentially chilling open discussion and effective decision-making within government. They maintain that the public interest is best served by preserving the confidential nature of cabinet discussions.

This argument was, however, rejected by Justice Richard Petrie of the Court of King's Bench.

In his ruling, Justice Petrie asserted that the public interest in a full and transparent inquest into Monica Sock's death and the discontinuation of the MAT program outweighed the government's claim of cabinet privilege. He emphasized the necessity of a complete picture for the inquest to fulfill its mandate effectively and provide answers to the grieving family and community.

Despite Justice Petrie's clear directive, the provincial government swiftly filed an appeal, demonstrating their unwavering commitment to keeping these documents out of public view.

This appeal is slated to be heard in September, setting the stage for a critical legal showdown that could have significant implications for government transparency in New Brunswick.

This isn't the first time the New Brunswick government has clashed with calls for greater transparency. Previous instances, such as their prolonged legal fight over releasing portions of the Systemic Racism Commissioner's report, highlight a pattern of resistance to full disclosure.

Critics argue that these actions hinder public understanding of crucial policy decisions, particularly those impacting vulnerable communities.

As the legal battle continues, the focus remains on the pursuit of truth and accountability for Monica Sock's death and the future of healthcare access for Indigenous communities.

The outcome of this appeal will not only determine the scope of the inquest but also send a powerful message about the balance between government secrecy and the public's right to know in matters of life and death.