A bill setting up the functions of an Ombudsman to investigate abuse of power, discriminatory practices and bias in Government and Government bodies has been tabled in the House of Assembly.

The Ombudsman Act gives the Ombudsman the power to recommend that authorities rectify wrongdoing. If the authority fails to take action he can issue a special report.

People in custody have the right to give their complaints in a sealed envelope.

The Ombudsman can decide not to investigate complaints if the complainant brings something more than a year old or has failed to use other available remedies or if it is frivolous.

The bill gives the Ombudsman the same powers as the court to summon people and obtain documents but protects Cabinet secrecy, internal security, defence and international relations of Bermuda as well as barring actions which could prejudice the investigation or detection of an offence.