Learn more about the lieutenant governor

The King of Canada, His Majesty King Charles III, is the official Head of State and is represented in New Brunswick by the lieutenant governor. The lieutenant governor is the nominal head of state at the provincial level, empowered with the responsibility of representing the king in the province. However, the premier and the Executive Council (elected members appointed as ministers of the Crown by the lieutenant governor on the recommendation of the premier) are responsible for governing the province.

The Lieutenant Governor of New Brunswick is appointed by the Governor General-in-Council on the recommendation of the Prime Minister of Canada. The document of appointment is signed by the Governor General. The appointment, by tradition, is usually for a period of not less than five years and carries the title of "The Honourable" for life. 

The lieutenant governor serves in a dual capacity: 

• as representative of the king for all purposes of the provincial government and
• as a federal officer in discharging certain functions on behalf of the federal government

The lieutenant governor opens, prorogues and dissolves the Legislative Assembly. The lieutenant governor is responsible for swearing in the premier and cabinet ministers and must ensure that a government is in office at all times. The Chief Justice of New Brunswick, as administrator, acts for the lieutenant governor during their absence, illness or other inability. One or the other must be in the province at all times.

The lieutenant governor gives royal assent to all bills passed by the legislature before they become law, and signs them and other official documents like proclamations and appointments of persons to government posts including deputy ministers; provincial judges; members of boards, agencies, and commissions; crown attorneys; and justices of the peace. 

The lieutenant governor also signs other official government documents, including land patents, leases and appointments of notaries public and commissioners for taking affidavits. 

A major responsibility of the lieutenant governor is to deliver the Speech from the Throne at the formal opening of a new session of the Legislative Assembly. This speech outlines proposed legislation, programs, and possible initiatives of the government for that session.

The lieutenant governor attends many public events throughout the province every year. By engaging with New Brunswickers of all backgrounds, the lieutenant governor fosters a strong sense of belonging; promotes healthy, welcoming, and inclusive communities; and celebrates New Brunswick’s unique institutions and landmarks.

In addition to these duties, the lieutenant governor also:

• sponsors awards
• presents citations
• participates in investitures, dedications and other major events recognizing the achievements of the people of New Brunswick
• writes messages of greeting, congratulations and condolence
• hosts receptions, luncheons and dinners for guests of various organizations and professions
• receives members of the royal family, heads of state, ambassadors and other representatives of foreign countries, as well as people from all walks of life
• attends public events in support of community initiatives

The Office of the Lieutenant Governor can provide detailed guidelines to event organizers in preparation for hosting the Lieutenant Governor. In conversation and correspondence, the lieutenant governor is addressed as "Your Honour," as is their spouse.

An honourary aide-de-camp accompanies the Lieutenant Governor to assist in the performance of their duties and ensure protocol is followed during functions. Aides-de camp are typically active members of the Canadian Armed Forces, Royal Canadian Mounted Police, or municipal police forces serving on a volunteer basis.

The vice-regal standard is flown at Government House whenever the lieutenant governor is in Fredericton. It’s also flown from public buildings throughout the province, such as the Legislative Buildings, whenever the lieutenant governor happens to be in residence.

Approved by Queen Elizabeth II in 1968, the vice-regal salute is a musical greeting and a mark of respect often performed in the presence of the Lieutenant Governor.

The vice-regal salute is composed of the first six bars of the Royal Anthem, "God Save The King", followed by a short version (the first four and the last four bars) of the National Anthem, "O Canada". The same format is used in other provinces as well as for the Governor General.

Vice-regal badges of recognition are presented to Lieutenant Governors (gold) and their spouses (silver) when they assume office. Their Honours typically wear these lapel pins at official appearances and may continue to wear them after retiring from office.

The Canadian Heraldic Authority grants a personal coat of arms to every Lieutenant Governor upon their appointment. The coat of arms of the Hon. Louise Imbeault is currently in the design phase.