Thank you, Mr. Chair. I am here today to introduce Bill 20, Ombud Act.
I would like to thank the Standing Committee on Government Operations for their review of Bill 20 and for the constructive feedback that they have provided. A number of motions were made in standing committee, and I am pleased that the bill has improved as a result.
This bill represents a longstanding priority for Members of the Legislative Assembly, as well as the government's general commitment to enhancing transparency and accountability.
An Ombud serves as a check on government, monitoring its treatment of citizens and promoting accountability in public administration. Specifically, an Ombud investigates whether the administrative decisions, recommendations, actions, or omissions of government authorities in relation to citizens are improper, based on principles of administrative fairness.
An Ombud is independent. As an Officer of the Legislative Assembly, they have the freedom to offer honest criticism to the institutions that they investigate.
An Ombud is impartial. They are advocates for fairness. They are not advocates or agents for any party to a dispute.
Investigations by an Ombud are confidential. The information collected by the Ombud will not be subject to disclosure under our access to information laws, and the Ombud cannot be compelled to provide information in proceedings of a judicial nature.
Further, Ombud investigations require a credible review process. The bill sets out what the Ombud can investigate and provides the Ombud with wide powers of investigation.
The Ombud's powers also include the discretion to resolve matters informally, the authority to make findings and develop recommendations to resolve unfairness and improve administrative practices, and the ability to report matters to the Premier, Legislative Assembly, and the public.
I would be pleased to answer any questions that Members may have regarding Bill 20.