City Council request action plan to address public safety concerns

At a Council in Committee Meeting on Tuesday, September 2nd, 2025, Miramichi Police Force Chief Brian Cummings advised City Council on the actions being taken to address drug use and public safety issues. The presentation, which begins at the 10 minute mark in the video, came as a result of concerns expressed by city residents and the business community in Downtown Newcastle.

“It is an ongoing situation that unfortunately, I don’t see a resolve to overnight, but I think we will get there as time goes on,” said Cummings.

The police chief highlighted the actions the department has taken including an increased presence of foot patrols in the downtown area along with the two eBikes used by patrol officers.

“We utilize everything that we can,” Cummings said adding that includes using a drone overnight to covertly see what could be going on.

With the City being broken into four policing zones, there are five patrol officers to cover all zones and one person is assigned to the Downtown Newcastle zone. Officers are reallocated to the downtown when other areas are quieter.

In addition, the department’s Criminal Investigation Division, which has three plain clothes officers, will be in the Queen Elizabeth Park . As a result of being there and witnessing a drug transaction, the Miramichi Integrated Enforcement Unit made a significant seizure nearby.

“It’s an ongoing effort and I’m fully cognizance of the fact that it’s a frustrating effort. We’re dealing with social issues that I’m sure we’ll be talking about later this evening that are beyond the scope of just the members that are in this room.”

Cummings urged residents and business owners to reach out to police if they see anything.

After a number of questions, suggestions, and discussion between Chief Cummings and members of council, a motion was made for Chief Cummings and members of the City’s senior management team to develop a plan to address public safety concerns in the City.

Mayor Lordon advised he has been in discussion with the local MLAs to request meetings with the Ministers of Public Safety and Social Development to advocate for the proper resourcing for what the province is responsible for.