The Ombudsman considers complaints as they relate to administrative fairness.
The Ombudsman can consider an issue or decision that:
- Is contrary to the organization’s legislative authority
- Has been made without an obvious relationship to the facts or evidence
- Results from a refusal to use discretion where the facts or evidence call for its exercise
- Is contrary to the principles of equity, fairness or equality or is characterized by arbitrary behavior
The Ombudsman can also consider an issue where:
- There is delay in taking any required action
- No reasons are given
- Any inconsistent treatment is not explained
- An action violates well established, known and accepted policies or procedures
- There is a failure to treat similarly-situated persons equally when there is no suitable, justifiable, or appropriate reason not to do so
The Ombudsman cannot consider complaints about:
- Something about which you have already appealed to a tribunal or a government minister or have taken court action
- Appointments of staff, pay / discipline or other personnel matters
- Policing
- Lobbyists’ activities
- Councillors’ conduct
- The weather
If you are unsure, contact us
