Mission

The Québec Ombudsman prevents and corrects errors or injustices committed against any individual or group of individuals in connection with a Québec government ministry or agency, or an establishment in the health and social services network.

In investigating a complaint, the Québec Ombudsman listens to all parties concerned. When it determines that an error or injustice has been committed, it makes recommendations to ensure that the ministry, agency, or establishment can remedy the situation as quickly as possible. Although the Québec Ombudsman has no power of enforcement, 99% of its recommendations were accepted in 2008–2009.

The Québec Ombudsman can intervene of its own initiative if it has reason to believe that a citizen or group of citizens has been wronged by an act or omission of a ministry, public agency, or recognized establishment in the health and social services network.

The Québec Ombudsman can propose amendments to existing or draft acts, regulations, directives, and administrative policies in order to improve them on behalf of the public good.

The Québec Ombudsperson is appointed by the sitting members of all political parties in the National Assembly and is accountable only to them. His or her actions are therefore neutral, independent, and impartial—all essential qualities in the performance of the Québec Ombudsman’s duties. Justice, equity, respect, transparency, and impartiality are the values that guide its action.

The Québec Ombudsman cannot intervene when legal recourse is exercised. The principle of the separation of judicial, legislative, and executive powers also prohibits it from taking any action aimed at modifying a court judgment.

Strategic Plan

For more information on the direction and goals of the Québec Ombudsman, see Strategic Plan 2009-2012 (version PDF, 594 KB).