OUR TEAM
How much Authority does the Complaints Commissioner have?
Has the same powers as a Magistrate sitting in the Magistrate's Court.
Has the Authority to enter and inspect the premises of any department of Government or public authority; to call for, examine, make copies of and, where necessary retain any document kept on such premises.
Obstructing the Complaints Commissioner and his or her staff in conducting and investigation is a crime.
OUR SOLUTIONS
What is Maladministration?
A situation where a Public Officer, Government Department or Authority makes a wrong decision, acts outside its statutory authority and fails to take required action. Example:
Unreasonable delay in dealing with any request or application
Abuse of power or Authority
Flawed procedures
Failing to give reasons for decisions
Discourtesy, rudeness
Lack of consideration for a person affected by any action
Acting with bias, unfairness, neglect
Incompetence
Arbitrariness
Failing to follow through on commitments made
Making decisions based wholly or partly on a mistake of law or fact
“YOU HAVE A RIGHT TO COMPLAIN!"
Established in 1994 in the Turks and Caicos Islands.
There have been three previous Complaints Commissioners.
The current Complaints Commissioner is Mrs. Cynthia Astwood, OBE.
The Office investigates complaints of maladministration by Public Authorities and Institutions
Promotes effectiveness and efficiency within services rendered to the community
Educates persons about their rights and duties in a free and democratic society
Provides a service to the public in fairness, justice and without prejudice.