Ger Deering , Ombudsman
By Suzanne Pender
THE Ombudsman and Carlow native Ger Deering received 44 complaints about public services from people in Co Carlow during 2023, figures released this week indicate.
The Ombudsman also received more than 4,700 complaints in 2022, with 31 complaints coming from people in Carlow. This represents a 34% increase in complaints originating from Carlow year-on-year.
People in Carlow complained about a number of issues, including social welfare payments, but also about services provided by local public bodies, including Carlow County Council and local public hospitals.
The Ombudsman’s’ office marks 40 years in existence in 2024 and Mr Deering is keen to point out that people should not be afraid to complain.
“In most cases, people’s dealings with public services go well. However, when something goes wrong, we should complain. This gives the opportunity for the public body to not only rectify the individual mistake but to help improve its overall service,” he said.
The Ombudsman investigates complaints about public services provided by government departments, county councils, the HSE and most public bodies. It is independent of government and provides a free and impartial service for dealing with complaints about most providers of public services.
The Ombudsman can investigate your complaint once you have complained to the service provider, whose action or decision has affected you. The easiest way to make a complaint to the Ombudsman is through its website: www.ombudsman.ie
You can also write to the Office of the Ombudsman at 6 Earlsfort Terrace, Dublin 2, D02 W773 or call 01 6395600.
More information is available at www.ombudsman.ie
