Richmond residents who feel they were mistreated by the government or public sector organizations will be able to make their complaints in person next week.
The BC Ombudsperson, a watchdog independent of government that conducts oversight over more than 1,000 provincial and local public bodies in the province, is sending a "mobile complaints team" to Richmond, Coquitlam, Maple Ridge and Mission.
From Jan. 22 to 24, the public is invited to schedule appointments with staff members to voice their concerns. The sessions are free and confidential.
“You can call our office anytime to complain about government, but this is an opportunity to meet with us face to face to share your concerns about unfair service delivery by provincial and local public bodies in B.C.,” said Ombudsperson Jay Chalke.
“It’s our job to impartially look into issues of unfairness by public bodies and make recommendations for improvement.”
The BC Ombudsperson office deals with around 8,000 enquiries and complaints each year about organizations including provincial government ministries, local governments, health authorities, schools, ICBC, BC Hydro and WorkSafeBC. Complaints include denial of benefits or lack of ability to access timely services.
To book an appointment with the complaints team, call 1-800-567-3247. For more information, visit the BC Ombudsperson's website.
Got an opinion on this story or any others in Richmond? Send us a letter or email your thoughts or story tips to [email protected].
