Website: www.ombudnb.ca/site/en/
548 York Street
PO Box 6000
Fredericton, NB E3B 5H1
Find this location on Google Maps
Telephone: (506) 453-2789
Toll-free: (888) 465-1100
Fax: (506) 453-5599
E-mail: nbombud@gnb.ca
The Ombudsman is an officer of the Legislative Assembly, and is independent of government.
The Office of the Ombudsman currently has responsibilities under five statutes.
In accordance with the Ombudsman Act, the office conducts independent and confidential investigations into complaints from individuals regarding administrative matters.
In conducting an investigation, staff of the Office of the Ombudsman may be required to critically analyze and review policies, procedures, legislation, case law, and examine government records. Also, information is obtained from officials either through meetings or correspondence. In addition to receiving information from clients through interviews or correspondence, investigators may obtain additional information through site visits conducted throughout the province.
As a result of the information gathered through the investigation, the Office of the Ombudsman makes a finding. If, on the conclusion of the investigation, the finding supports the client’s complaint, the Ombudsman will facilitate a resolution, or in the alternative, make a recommendation for corrective action. The Ombudsman does not have the authority to require the government to act; however, negotiation has proven to be very effective. Where there is insufficient evidence to establish that the complaint is justified, the investigation is discontinued and the client is advised of the results in writing.