RCMP labour code case related to New Brunswick shootings delayed until May

MONCTON, N.B. – Court proceedings have been delayed in the case of alleged Labour Code violations by the RCMP related to the force’s response to a June 2014 shooting rampage in Moncton, N.B.

The RCMP was expected to enter pleas and set a trial date during a court appearance in Moncton on Thursday, but defence lawyer Ian Carter says the Crown and defence still require more time to discuss narrowing the issues in the case, which has been set over until May 12.

Both sides had previously asked for more time in what they described as a complex case during a court appearance in January.

Employment and Social Development Canada alleges there were four violations of the code relating to the force’s equipment, training and supervision in the June 4, 2014 incident that resulted in the deaths of three Mounties.

Justin Bourque was sentenced to life in prison with no eligibility for parole after pleading guilty to three counts of first-degree murder and two counts of attempted murder.

Last May, the Public Prosecution Service of Canada recommended the RCMP be prosecuted for contravention of occupational health and safety provisions.