Bernard Richard picked for child and youth representative in B.C.

Former New Brunswick child and youth advocate Bernard Richard is being recommended as the new representative for children and youth in British Columbia.

An all-party special committee of the B.C. Legislative Assembly unanimously recommended in a report released Tuesday that Richard be appointed to the position.

"The committee was impressed by Mr. Richard's passion for serving children and youth, his successful management of public sector organizations, and his considerable experience with indigenous communities," said committee chairman Don McRae in a statement.

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"He also brings a record of high ethical standards, fairness and accountability, and a principled and collaborative leadership style, which will support his work as representative."

The child and youth representative in B.C. is an officer of the legislature who provides advocacy services for children, young adults and families regarding government services.

The appointment would be for a five-year term and may be renewed for an additional five-year term.

Richard's appointment needs to be approved by the B.C. Legislature.

A former Liberal politician, cabinet member and interim leader, Richard resigned from the New Brunswick Legislature to become the provincial ombudsman on Jan. 3, 2004.

In November 2006, Richard took on an additional role as New Brunswick's first child and youth advocate.

Richard retired from the roles in April 2011.