STAFF ROLES
MISSION STATEMENT
The Office of the Complaints Commissioner (Ombudsman) of the Turks & Caicos Islands seeks to investigate complaints of Maladministration by Government Departments and Statutory Bodies as stipulated in the Ordinance, Promote effectiveness and efficiency within services rendered to the community, educate persons about their and duties in a free democratic society, and provide a service to the public in fairness, justice and without prejudice, so as to promote harmony and good governance in the country.
CURRENT PERSONEL AND ROLES
The current staff complement is three, however there is a need for additional staff.
The Complaints Commissioner (Ombudsman)
The Commissioner is appointed by the Governor after consultation with the Premier and Leader of the Opposition. The Commissioner has extensive powers under the Complaints Commissioner (Ombudsman) Ordinance 2015 to investigate complaints, both from individual complainants and matters of the Commissioner’s Own Motion where there is an alleged systemic failing on a matter of national public importance. The Commissioner plays a lead role in Own Motion Investigations, from conception to conclusion, and also in High Profile or Sensitive cases, either dealing with them personally or giving strong guidance to the Investigative Officer on such matters. With regard to conducting investigations and obtaining both oral and written evidence, the Commissioner has the same powers as a Magistrate, including the power to issue subpoenas if necessary and appropriate.
The Administrative Officer
The Administrative Officer is responsible for the finances, budget and administration of the daily functioning of the Complaints Commission Office.
The Investigative Officer
The Investigative Officer receives, investigates, reports and resolves complaints within the procedure, parameters and time frame established by the Commissioner and also assist in the Commissioner’s Own Motion Investigations (OMI’s). The Investigative Officer is also responsible for providing statistical reports as required by the Commissioner and to prepare and deliver educational workshops to civil servants on the role and function of the Complaints Commission.