Ombudsman discusses the impact of his Office on Xtra

The Parliamentary Ombudsman, Judge Joseph Zammit McKeon, was interviewed by Saviour Balzan on Xtra, broadcast on TVM, Malta’s national television station.

During the discussion, the Ombudsman explained the procedures followed once a complaint is received and how investigations are carried out within his Office. He noted that many issues are resolved during the course of the investigation, particularly in straightforward cases such as delays or lack of communication from public authorities. When a matter warrants a full investigation, this is conducted meticulously, and recommendations are issued where injustice or maladministration is identified.

The Ombudsman remarked that, in the majority of cases, his recommendations are implemented by the public administration, reflecting a generally constructive relationship between the Office and government entities. However, there remain instances where recommendations are not implemented.

He explained that when this occurs, the Ombudsman is empowered to refer such cases to Parliament for consideration. By the end of September 2025, a total of 15 reports had been tabled in Parliament under this procedure.

The Ombudsman also referred to his proposal for the establishment of an ad hoc Parliamentary Committee dedicated to discussing the Ombudsman’s reports and non-implemented recommendations, as a means to strengthen institutional accountability and oversight.

He further underlined that the Office of the Ombudsman serves as an alternative means of access to justice, capable of assessing not only the legality of administrative actions but also their fairness and proportionality, ensuring that complainants receive redress where decisions, though lawful, may still result in injustice.

The interview was aired on the 9th October 2025