This section provides a number of sample cases in order to illustrate the variety, processes and outcomes of this important aspect of the work of the Ombudsman. the most recent cases dealt with by the Ombudsman are also highlighted.
Casebook
The Ombudsman's Casebook is published on a quarterly basis, and provides summaries of complaints the Ombudsman has dealt with over the previous months. It will be useful to service providers in learning from our examination of complaints and seeing what other similar organisations are doing well, and not so well.
Key Reports:
The Ombudsman reported to the Dáil and Seanad on the Department of Health's rejection of an Ombudsman recommendation relating to the operation of the Motorised Transport Grant (MTG) scheme. The recommendation, if implemented, would ensure that the MTG scheme operates in compliance with the Equal Status Acts.
This was an investigation by the Ombudsman, Emily O’Reilly, of a complaint against the Department of Health. The Department failed to amend the terms of the Mobility Allowance Scheme even though it was not compliant with Equal Status legislation enacted in 2000.
An investigation by the Ombudsman of a complaint by a family about the refusal of the Department of Agriculture, Fisheries and Food to approve their application under the Lost at Sea Scheme and to pay compensation recommended by the Ombudsman.
An investigation by the Ombudsman based on more than 1,000 individual complaints made, since 1985, on behalf of older people who were unable to get long-term nursing home care from their health boards (HSE).
An Ombudsman investigation concerning the failure to refund illegal nursing home charges: A complaint against HSE and the Appeals Officer, Health Repayments Scheme
A Report to the Dáil and Seanad under section 6(7) of the Ombudsman Act 1980
An Investigation by the Ombudsman of Complaints Regarding Payment of Nursing Home Subventions By Health Boards.
Recent Reports
Appeal Overruled: A failure to provide basic income for a family seeking asylum
Care Denied - Failure to Provide Long-Stay Care for Under 65s
The Revenue Commissioners and Random Car Seizures
Motorised Transport Grant - Report to Dáil and Seanad
Investigation Report: Motorised Transport Grant