NEWS RELEASE

For Immediate Release 2009AG0009-000446 October 5, 2009

Ministry of Attorney General

 

OFFICE OF OMBUDSMAN CHANGES NAME

 

VICTORIA – The office of B.C.’s ombudsman will change its name to the office of the ombudsperson under legislation introduced today.

 

“This name change is about better reflecting the era in which we live,” said Attorney General Michael de Jong, QC, who introduced Bill 12 amending the Ombudsman Act. “Societal norms have evolved since this office was first established in 1979. Workplace diversity has come a long way, and this change reflects our sensitivity to the names of public offices.”

 

            Ombudsman is a Swedish word and is not gender-specific when used in that language. Kim Carter is the second woman to serve in the position.

 

The ombudsperson is an independent officer of the legislature who oversees the administrative actions of government authorities. The office conducts impartial and independent investigations of complaints and makes recommendations to improve administrative practices. The name change precedes the office’s 30th anniversary celebration on Oct. 15.

 

“Government and the public have benefited greatly from the work of the office of the ombudsperson in investigating complaints about public agencies,” said de Jong. “I congratulate the office on its 30th anniversary and thank the successive ombudspersons whose insights have contributed to keeping government practices fair and accountable.”

 

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Contact:	Janis Robertson Public Affairs Officer Ministry of Attorney General 250 387-5904 250 889-5945 (cell)

 

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