The Ombudsperson offers advice and assistance with complaints unresolved through other regular University channels. A list of offices, units or departments you should try contacting first can be found on our GETTING HELP pages.

The Ombudsperson can conduct an investigation once all other available avenues have been exhausted.

The Office can help you by:

• providing neutral confidential advice
• identifying and explaining relevant university policies and procedures
• expediting "red tape" tangles
• helping to analyze the problem and define options
• referring you to the appropriate offices where means exist for the resolution of your complaint
• investigating and or reconciling disputes

The Office cannot help:

• if the object of the complaint is outside the jurisdiction of the Governing Council (e.g., a landlord/tenant dispute)
• if there exists a means for the resolution of the complaint in other University offices
• if the complaint or grievance is covered by a collective agreement

The Ombudsperson cannot make University policy or replace established legislative, judicial or administrative rules or procedures. However, the Ombudsperson may comment on and make recommendations for change in these areas. As outlined in the Terms of Reference, the Ombudsperson brings

"...findings and recommendations to the attention of those in authority by the most expeditious means possible and to the University community at large to the extent that is appropriate."

The Ombudsperson is accountable to the Governing Council. The Ombudsperson produces an annual report of the office's activities for the Governing Council and the campus community. The Annual Report and the Administrative Response together with other documents can be found on our Reports pages.

The Office of the Ombudsperson has moved to a new location (effective Sept. 29, 2008).

General Interest