Some Important Information

For All Citizens

Every person can – within the limits of our purview – come to us. Citizenship and place of residence are not relevant. We are here not just for individuals and families, but also for citizens' groups, legal entities, social organizations, companies, and also members of public agencies and governments bodies.

Simplicity

There are no strict rules for initiating a process. You can communicate your matter to us verbally, in written form, by fax, or by e-mail. We will, of course, inform you about the results of our investigation.

Confidentiality

Your inquiries, complaints, and suggestions will be treated confidentially if you don't wish to establish contact with the relevant public agency. The Ombudsman and her staff are bound by official secrecy.

Objectivity – Not Partiality

Even though the concerns of citizens seeking assistance in dealing with their complaints are always of paramount importance to us, the Ombudsman is obligated to remain objective and impartial. We cannot represent you vis-à-vis public agencies or formulate petitions.

Complete Access to Documents

The public agencies must provide the Ombudsman with complete access to their documents and records and supply them with the necessary information. Such agencies cannot invoke the need for official secrecy. The Ombudsman also has the option of having expertises prepared.

Do Not Forget to Avail Yourself of All Your Legal Options

Contacting the Ombudsman does not make it unnecessary to avail yourself of all your legal options (appeals, objections, etc.) in fighting an administrative decision, nor does it have any postponing effect upon the course of proceedings or deadlines.

Duty of Public Agencies to Provide Information

You should first address your questions concerning current processes and about the legal situation to the responsible public agency. Such agencies are required to provide corresponding information, and – in addition to the legal minimum – also inform you about administrative procedures and the likelihood of success of your application. If you are not satisfied with this information or desire additional information from an independent source, we can help you in the scope of our responsibilities.

Administrative Decisions Are Not Repealed

The Ombudsman can determine if a public agency has acted properly and appropriately, but she cannot repeal or amend such decisions. However, she can recommend that certain deficiencies be remedied.

Recommendations to Public Agencies

In the context of an investigation, the Ombudsman can make recommendations to the head of public agencies as to how a deficiency she has discovered could best be remedied and avoided in the future. She is not a judicial authority. The activity report which the Ombudsman submits each year to the Provincial Parliament and the Provincial Government can be regarded as an indirect yet effective means of motivating public agencies to remedy deficiencies.

No Costs

The services of the Provincial Ombudsman are free of charge.

Official Investigations

The Provincial Ombudsman is authorized to launch official investigations into possible deficiencies of which he becomes aware via citizens who are not directly affected or via the media.