Dáil Éireann Debate, Wednesday - 6 February 2019
70. Deputy Bernard J. Durkan asked the Minister for Finance if, in the event of new evidence in the case of persons (details supplied), a further review of their case can be undertaken by the Financial Services and Pensions Ombudsman with a view to addressing the most recently emerged issues; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [5846/19]
View answerFirstly, I must point out that the Financial Services and Pensions Ombudsman (FSPO) is independent in the performance of his statutory functions. I have no role in the day to day workings of the office or in the decisions which he takes.
One of the main roles of the Ombudsman is to investigate, mediate and adjudicate complaints about the conduct of financial or pension service providers. The FSPO was established to provide an alternative to the Courts for consumers who have unresolved disputes with a financial or pension service provider and all investigations by the Ombudsman are free of charge to the consumer. Subject only to an appeal to the High Court, a finding of the Ombudsman in respect of a complaint is legally binding on all parties
The FSPO has advised me that the services provided by him are confidential in nature, and it would not be appropriate for him to confirm or deny the existence of a complaint, nor would it be appropriate to comment on any individual case.
On the issue more generally the FSPO provides a dedicated information service, which handles both phone and email enquiries. This service provides assistance on how to access the FSPO's services, to initiate a complaint or discuss a complaint. The Deputy may wish to suggest that the complainant contact the Office of the Financial Services and Pensions Ombudsman to discuss their case with a member of staff.
