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Inclusive and respectful service
A specialized approach for the First Nations and Inuit
The Protecteur du citoyen has undertaken a cultural safety initiative with First Nations and Inuit.
Frequently Asked Questions
Make a complaint
Yes. Section 20 of the Public Protector Act specifies that anyone who applies to have the Protecteur du citoyen intervene must provide:
- their name, address and phone number before stating the facts;
- any other information or document considered necessary for a clear understanding of the facts.
As for reports, unless you want feedback from us, you do not have to provide any personal information.
The Protecteur du citoyen cannot step in when complaints have to do with the federal government. However, feel free to contact us anyway. We will help you find the right resource for the problem or situation you are experiencing with a federal department or agency.
Denounce a reprehensible act
A wrongdoer can be a natural or a legal person. For example, a wrongdoer may be:
- A member of the staff of the public body concerned, regardless of rank;
- A business or other entity that has ties to the public body by means of an agreement that governs its operation or funding.
You may be summoned as a witness as part of a public integrity investigation to:
- Relate the events of which you had personal knowledge or knowledge in your capacity as an expert;
- Provide a document or any other piece of evidence.
You are legally obliged to cooperate in the investigation. At the meeting, you must provide all investigation-related information and answer all the investigator’s questions.
The law exempts you from the duty to be loyal and from any other confidentiality restriction which could otherwise apply. This includes professional secrecy, except for the secrecy binding attorneys or notaries to their clients.
See the Witness page and the Handling disclosures section for more information about our investigation procedure.