NASSAU, BAHAMAS — The Organization for Responsible Governance (ORG) has released its recommendations on the Ombudsman Bill, 2023, outlining what it says are several opportunities to strengthen the legislation.
The Bill seeks to establish a body for transparency, accountability and integrity in the administration and decision-making of public institutions and authorities, and to promote and protect the fundamental rights and freedoms of individuals and international human rights law.
ORG Executive Director, Matt Aubry, echoed the not-for-profit’s commendation to legislators for addressing the need and benefits of establishing an Office of The Ombudsman.
“Across the region, countries such as Jamaica, Barbados, Haiti, and Trinidad and Tobago have established Ombudsman Offices. ORG has used both these regional as well as international examples as benchmarks in its analysis and published recommendations,” he said.
An Ombudsman acts as an arbitrator for the people and businesses and serves as a protector of rights; it is a crucial stepping stone to ensuring the efficient, accountable, and equitable delivery of public services.
