I am often asked why I only have the power to make recommendations to City Council. Why can’t I issue decisions that have to be followed?
Some would say the office has no teeth and indeed, the headline for a recent newspaper article said: “Ombudsman’s bark needs bite.” So I wanted to examine this issue with you, so that you can have a better understanding of my role.
As Ombudsman I have a number of powers. I can investigate, make findings and draw conclusions. I can enter premises, subpoena documents and interview witnesses. I can also make recommendations to the organization involved, and make them public.
When I make recommendations to the Toronto Public Service, I give them the opportunity to review the findings and adopt my recommendations first. I don’t always make them public but I can and do report to City Council in cases where my recommendations have not been adopted. It is the legislators at City Council who are responsible for holding the public service accountable.
This office is working hard to be open and transparent with the public and the media, so that you can inform yourselves about public service and how it should serve you. Then it’s your job – in a democracy it’s up to the people who elect the politicians to demand change.
The media is critical in reporting and exposing the light the Ombudsman is shining in those dark corners. And City Council plays a pivotal role in ensuring this office has the resources to do this job, and supporting the implementation of my recommendations.
If you have questions about this role, I welcome your comments.
Fiona Crean
Get in touch with the Ombudsman ombuds@toronto.ca or call 416-392-7062, TTY 416-392-7100. The Office treats all communications in confidence.
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