New Brunswick’s independent commissioner on systemic racism will have more time to complete her final report.

Manju Varma was given until the end of September to finish her report and submit recommendations to the government.

But in a news release on Monday, the province announced it had given Varma a three-month extension.

“This has been an incredibly challenging journey, especially for those who have entrusted me with their experiences of racism in New Brunswick,” Varma was quoted in the release.

“I have seen significant interest from a broad spectrum of the population here and it’s important that those who want to participate have the opportunity to do so.”

Varma, who was appointed last September, said pandemic lockdowns made it more difficult to consult with stakeholders over the course of her mandate.

She also noted there is data becoming available in October she would like to include as part of her final report.

Aboriginal Affairs Minister Arlene Dunn said the short extension will ensure a more comprehensive and inclusive report.

Varma has been tasked with holding public consultations on the “nature and impact of systemic racism” and creating a final report.

The report will include recommendations for the government on developing a provincial strategy and an action plan to address sector concerns such as barriers to opportunity; equitable access to programs and services; and systemic racism in health care, education, social development, housing, employment and criminal justice.