News In Focus
8 September 2010
Minister slams Scottish public service watchdog
The Scottish Public Services Ombudsman (SPSO) has come under fire from the Scottish housing minister, Alex Neil, who has accused the body of “too often failing in its duty” after receiving a petition of complaint from his constituents.
He said: “Given the Parliament spends £3.5 million a year in funding the ombudsman, we need a far better return for our money. To quote one of the petitioners, it’s not worth a farthing in terms of the quality of service the petitioners have received.”
However, the ombudsman hit back at the minister, labelling him “out of touch” and pointing to the full review of the body’s activities, which was implemented earlier this year.
“The SPSO he is describing is the SPSO of 18 months ago,” said the ombudsman’s Jim Martin. “I am disappointed that he has not taken the time to bring himself up to date with our current performance. My annual report will be published later this month and should answer the concerns he has raised.”