Backgrounder: Office of the Federal Ombudsman for Victims of Crime

The Office of the Federal Ombudsman for Victims of Crime was established in 2007 to help victims of crime and their families; both directly, by answering questions and addressing complaints, and indirectly, by promoting positive systemic change. The Office was created as part of the Government of Canada’s ongoing commitment to victims of crime.

The mandate of the Federal Ombudsman for Victims of Crime relates exclusively to matters of federal responsibility. The Office:

• helps victims learn about, and access, federal programs and services;
• addresses complaints made by victims about federal government departments, agencies, laws or policies;
• refers victims to programs and services in their city or province;
• identifies issues and makes recommendations to the federal government on how to enhance its policies and laws to meet victims’ needs;
• educates policy-makers about the needs and concerns of victims; and
• promotes the principles set out in the Canadian Statement of Basic Principles of Justice for Victims of Crime with decision- and policy-makers.

The Office offers direct assistance to victims, victim service organizations, and the general public through its toll-free, bilingual telephone lines and by responding to e-mails and letters.

The Federal Ombudsman for Victims of Crime may examine relevant issues and make recommendations to the federal government:

• at his or her discretion; or
• when requested by a victim, victim service organization or advocate regarding other matters within federal responsibility.

The Ministers of Justice or Public Safety may compel the Ombudsman to examine a particular issue. Although the Ombudsman's recommendations are not binding, the government takes the recommendations under advisement. The Ombudsman does not encroach on the jurisdiction of the provinces, but rather ensures the federal government fulfills its commitments and responsibilities to victims of crime.

The Federal Ombudsman for Victims of Crime is appointed by the Governor in Council for a three-year term.

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Department of Justice Canada
August 2010