Training and speaking engagements
The Ombudsmen encourage government agencies to provide training for their employees on their responsibilities under the Ombudsmen Act and the official information legislation.
Where appropriate, the Ombudsmen will assist in the provision of such training and a growing number of agencies have taken advantage of the offer of general or targeted training for staff.
The Ombudsmen also give a number of presentations about their role to community organisations and service groups. For example, in the 2005-2006 year, the Ombudsmen and staff gave presentations to a number of organisations and conferences, including:
- the Annual Conference of the New Zealand Association for Migration and Investment;
- rotary clubs;
- community law centres and citizens advice bureaux;
- district law societies;
- universities; and
- law conferences.
An improved understanding of the Ombudsmen’s role and associated legislation is expected to contribute to better decision-making and to fewer complaints being lodged with government agencies and our office.