Ombudsman and IOI President Peter Tyndall was interviewed for the UK Parliamentary and Health Service Ombudsman Podcast. Listen here to hear the Ombudsman discuss the benefits of 'own-initiative' investigation powers, the impact of COVID 19 on his Office, Magdalene laundry scheme, visible leadership and solidarity among international Ombudsman offices.
Read MoreComplaints to the Ombudsman rose by 9% to 3,664 in 2019. It is the highest number of complaints received by the Ombudsman since 2010. Ombudsman Peter Tyndall examines complaints about public services, such as those provided by government departments, local authorities and the HSE. In his annual report for 2019, the Ombudsman said his Office saw increases in complaints about almost all sectors it deals with.
Read MoreOmbudsman Peter Tyndall has again expressed his concerns over the unsuitability of accommodation in the direct provision system. He said that the highly contagious nature of the COVID-19 virus has highlighted how unsustainable it is to have three or more people, who are not from the same family, living in the same room for a significant amount of time. The situation exists for many people in direct provision centres, and particularly for the increasing number of people living in emergency accommodation.
Read MoreA man complained to the Ombudsman when he was refused the COVID-19 Pandemic Unemployment Payment. The man, who was living in Co. Kilkenny was eligible for the payment and applied online when he was stranded in Poland due to travel restrictions. In his application the man indicated that he was in Poland at the time.
Read MoreDue to the current public health emergency it is unavoidable and understandable that it is causing considerable disruption to the delivery of public services, as well to the work of our own Office. With this in mind, we would ask for your patience and cooperation
Read MoreThe Ombudsman has taken the opportunity to submit proposals to political parties in an effort to ensure that public service reform remains high on the agenda of the next Government.
Read MoreOmbudsman Peter Tyndall has written to the Cabinet to highlight some of the issues raised in complaints to his Office that affect people with disabilities. The Cabinet meets today in Marino, Dublin for a special meeting to discuss disability issues.
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