PM announces new Chief Ombudsman

The Prime Minister has also revealed the appointment of Richard Pagen as Ombudsman while Apeo Fuata Sione has been re-appointed as Commissioner of the Public Services Commission.

As chair of the Ombudsman Appointments Committee, and chair of the Public Services Commission Appointments Committee, O’Neill said: “It was agreed by the Ombudsman Appointments Committee that Michael Dick was the outstanding candidate for appointment to this vital instrument of our constitution.

“I have great faith in Michael Dick’s integrity, transparency and independence.

“In his role as Acting Chief Ombudsman, he has had the opportunity to properly experience the magnitude of position and exercise the authority that it carries.

“On behalf of the Ombudsman Appointments Committee, I wish Michael Dick well in his role serving the nation.”

 The PM also said the Committee had recommended to the Governor-General that Pagen be appointed as Ombudsman.

“This is a significant appointment for the nation, and Richard Pagen has the skills and knowledge to carry out his function in a highly effective manner.

“As a current employee of the Ombudsman Commission, Richard Pagen has great familiarity with the role, function and authority of his new office.

“I will him success in his role serving the people of Papua New Guinea.”

O’Neill further said the Public Services Commission Appointments Committee had recommended to the Governor-General that Sione be re-appointed when his current term expires on 2nd May 2017.

“In his current term, Apeo Fuata Sione has executed his authority with diligence and maintained the respect of members in the public service,” stated O’Neill.

“In recent years the Public Service of our nation has been undergoing significant reform and this requires ongoing leadership.

“I look forward to Apeo Fuata Sione continuing in his role as we continue to strengthen the public sector and improve service delivery around the country.”

(File picture of Ombudsman Richard Pagen)