asked the Minister for Local Government if he will favourably consider the introduction of an ombudsman system in local government having regard to the frequency of complaints of maladministration and about the merits of discretionary decisions; and, if not, why.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Appointment of Ombudsman.
26.
I do not accept that complaints of maladministration and about the merits of discretionary decisions are frequent in local government as implied in the question. A great many decisions of local authorities are already subject to appeal either to a Minister or otherwise. I might mention that some of the recommendations made in the report of the public services organisation review group in relation to the public service in so far as administrative law and appellate procedures are concerned will have to be taken into account in due course.