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Public Services Ombudsman Act (Northern Ireland) 2016

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This is the original version (as it was originally enacted).

Power to investigate on own initiative

Explanatory NotesShow EN

8.—(1) The Ombudsman may investigate a matter in respect of which—

(a)no complaint has been made, or

(b)one or more complaints have been made (even if these complaints do not satisfy the requirements set out in sections 24 to 27),

if the requirements of this section are met.

(2) The matter must relate to action taken by one or more listed authorities (see sections 12 and 13).

(3) The matter must be one which can be investigated (see sections 14 to 23).

(4) The Ombudsman must have a reasonable suspicion—

(a)that there is systemic maladministration, or

(b)in a case where the matter is one which falls to be investigated under section 15(2)(b), 16(2)(b) or 17(2)(b), that systemic injustice has been sustained as a result of the exercise of professional judgement.

(5) The procedural requirements of section 29 must have been followed.

(6) The matter may relate to action taken before as well as after the day this section comes into operation.

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