From Department of Public Expenditure, NDP Delivery and Reform
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The Minister for Public Expenditure and Reform, Paschal Donohoe TD, today, December 3rd 2019, welcomes the reappointment of Mr Peter Tyndall as Ombudsman and Information Commissioner. Originally from Dublin, Mr Tyndall was appointed to the role in December 2013, and previously served as Public Services Ombudsman for Wales.
The Office of the Ombudsman examines complaints from people who feel that they have been unfairly treated by certain public service providers. Mr Tyndall has ensured that his Office deals with these challenging sectors effectively and efficiently, and has published regular casebooks on his work in these areas.
In his first term as Ombudsman, Mr Tyndall carried out a number of significant investigations into public services including into hospital complaints procedures, and reported on end-of-life care in hospitals. He has also led positive changes to both Offices.
The role of the Information Commissioner is to review decisions made by public bodies in response to Freedom of Information requests, and to make binding new decisions. During his term as Information Commissioner Mr Tyndall oversaw:
Mr Tyndall has driven major reform in both Offices to ensure services are delivered effectively and efficiently. The development of new websites and online systems has made it easier for people to bring their complaint to the Ombudsman, or apply for a review of a decision to the Information Commissioner or Commissioner for Environmental Information.
In 2016 Peter Tyndall was elected President of the International Ombudsman Institute (IOI), which reflects the experience he has, and the esteem in which he is held in the international Ombudsman community. Ireland will host the world conference of the IOI in 2020.
Following his reappointment, Peter Tyndall said:
“I am honoured and privileged to be re-appointed Ombudsman and Information Commissioner by President Higgins. I will continue to serve the public and the Oireachtas by providing access to redress for people who have suffered an injustice, driving improvements in our public services, and facilitating transparency and accountability in public life.”
Minister Donohoe has added:
“I welcome the reappointment of Mr Peter Tyndall as Ombudsman and Information Commissioner. Mr Tyndall brings considerable experience and expertise to the role. I note the many reforms he has driven since 2013, and the improvements to public administration that arise from the important work of both Offices.”
ENDS
Notes for Editors
Further information on the Office of the Ombudsman can be accessed at https://www.ombudsman.ie/