Office of the Ombudsman of Trinidad and Tobago

The Ombudsman investigates complaints from members of the public who believe they have been unfairly treated by Ministries/Government Departments/State Agencies. After receiving a complaint, the Office of the Ombudsman writes to the relevant agency outlining the allegations made and requests comments on the matter. Depending on the comments, the Ombudsman may conclude that the issue of maladminist

ration did not arise and he will not pursue the complaint. However, in other circumstances, the Ombudsman may determine that further investigation is required in order to thoroughly examine whether there was a fault in administration by the relevant agency. At the end of the investigation, if the Ombudsman determines that there was a fault in administration; recommendation(s) for remedial action will be made. The Ombudsman has the power to enter and inspect any premises over which he has jurisdiction. He can call for, examine, and, if necessary, retain any documents kept on such premises and carry out any investigation in pursuance of his function. The Ombudsman also has the powers of a High Court judge to summon witnesses to appear before him and to compel them to give evidence on oath and to produce documents relevant to the proceedings before him. Under the Freedom of Information Act (FOIA), Chap. 22:02, the Ombudsman has the power to review cases where access to an official document is refused and to make enquiries where there is a delay in providing same. Upon the Ombudsman’s intervention, recommendations are made and conveyed to the public authority which is required to consider and exercise its discretion in giving effect to same.