News

Our latest OQR is out. In this issue:

The Independent Monitoring Mechanism (IMM) is made up of the Disabled People’s Organisations’ Coalition, the Human Rights Commission and the Ombudsman.

Some interesting OIA issues are covered in new case notes published by the Chief Ombudsman today.

Parliament has agreed to extend Peter Boshier’s appointment  as Chief Ombudsman for another five years.

In the Chamber, the Leader of the House, Chris Hipkins highlighted Mr Boshier’s efforts to resolve complaints in a timely way.

The Chief Ombudsman joins his international counterparts in their call for documentation, preservation and access to information as governments, businesses and citizens deal with the COVID-19 pandemic.  

The Chief Ombudsman has re-set his monitoring programme for prisons and mental health facilities, with targeted inspections starting next week.

The Chief Ombudsman has published a new guide on how to deal with OIA requests for the names and contact details of public sector employees.

Chief Ombudsman Peter Boshier is to begin a series of targeted inspections this week to provide an independent assessment of how secure aged care facilities are responding to COVID-19.

This guide answers questions from agencies and requesters about dealing with official information requests during the COVID-19 emergency. It:

The Chief Ombudsman has provided agencies responsible for places of detention with a set of principles to guide them during the COVID-19 pandemic.

OPCAT inspections and visits during COVID-19 pandemic – update and Statement of Principles

Chief Ombudsman Peter Boshier says all New Zealanders have the right to be treated fairly during the COVID-19 emergency including those under lock and key.

We’re helping with research by the University of Newcastle Australia into the benefits of good complaints handling in public sector organisations.