The Ombudsman institution was envisaged in the Constitution. The functions and the organisation of the institution were set down in detail in National Ombudsman Act of 1981.
The Lower House of Parliament appoints the Ombudsman for a term of six years. In making an appointment, the Lower House takes account of a recommendation made, after joint consultations, by the vice-president of the Council of State, the president of the Supreme Court and the president of the Netherlands Court of Audit.
The Ombudsman may not be a member of a public body for which elections take place in a manner prescribed by law and he may not act as an advocate, solicitor, or notary.
The Lower House may terminate the employment of the Ombudsman if he has as a result of his acts or omissions seriously undermined the confidence placed in him.
The National Ombudsman is assisted by Deputy Ombudsmen, appointed also for a term of six years. He may stipulate that some of his powers are to be exercised by his Deputies.
The Ombudsman submits an annual report on his work to the Parliament and to the Cabinet of Ministers.
Apart from the National Ombudsman in the Netherlands there is also a specialized Pensions Ombudsman.
Contact information:
National Ombudsman of Netherlands
Postal address: PO Box 93122, 2509 AC The Hague
Visiting address: Bezuidenhoutseweg 151
Phone: +31 70 3 563 563
Fax: +31 70 3 607 572
E-mail: bureau@nationaleombudsman.nl
Web site: http://www.ombudsman.nl/
OMBUDSMAN
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