What results from a complaint?

The consequences of a complaint depend on what emerges from the Ombudsman's investigations.

The Ombudsman may

bring a prosecution if serious illegality is involved issue a reprimand if what is involved is an illegal procedure or neglect of duty, but there is no need to bring a prosecution

inform the authority of her opinion of what would be the legal course of action

draw the attention of the authority to the requirements of good governance or aspects that promote the implementation of fundamental and human righst

make a proposal that the authority rectify an error or redress a shortcoming

draw the attention of the Government to flaws that she has observed in legislative provisions or regulations and make proposals as to how shortcomings should be redressed.

 

In contrast, the Ombudsman can not

 

change or overturn decisions made by authorities or courts

intervene concerning the way in which an authority has exercised the power of discretion entrusted to it by law, provided this power has not been exceeded nor abused

order payment of compensation

provide legal advice.

 

When a complaint has been investigated, the Ombudsman's decision is sent to both the complainant and the subject of the complaint.

The documents appended to the complaint are returned to the complainant at the same time.