Office of the Ombudsman, Ireland
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Bíonn Oifig an Ombudsman ar oscalit ó 9.15 agus 5.30 ó Luan go Déardaoin agus 9.15 go 5.15 Dé hAoine

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Emily O'Reilly Launches Two New Websites

Dáta eisiúnta: 21.12.2005

Emily O'Reilly, Ombudsman and Information Commissioner, today launched new websites for both Offices. Speaking at the launch, Ms. O'Reilly said that "this development brings my Offices nearer to existing and potential clients, in that it is now possible to do business with us directly over the web, either through an on-line complaint to me as Ombudsman, or an on-line application and payment to me as Information Commissioner". The Commissioner went on to say that the two sites had been designed to the highest accessibility standards to make them easier to read and navigate. "I felt this particularly important as my remit as Ombudsman will shortly extend into the area of administrative practice in relation to disability services".

Features of the new websites include;

Up to date information on the functions of each Office delivered in an accessible and client-focused manner;

A search facility within the website;

A quick links menu for fast access to equivalent Offices and complaint handling bodies in Ireland and abroad;

Dedicated sections providing information for schools which are ideal for school projects;

A facility to make an on-line complaints to the Ombudsman;

A facility to enable on-line payments to be made to the Office of the Information Commissioner; and

A feedback facility for visitors to the site.

The sites were designed to be fully compliant with best practice in the area of website usability, the new websites have a clear structure and simple, intuitive navigation. They also have improved search functions. Furthermore, the content of each site has been re-written in Plain English in a way that guides non-expert users through the processes of each office. Technical and reference information remains in place for "Power Users".

The sites were developed by TERMINALFOUR, an Irish, Dublin based, software development company.

The Ombudsman and Information Commissioner is now embarking on a consultative phase in relation to the sites which will involve user testing and accessibility auditing against best website practice. She is inviting feedback on the websites which will inform that process. Feedback forms are available on each site.

The sites are now available at http://www.ombudsman.gov.ie and http://www.oic.gov.ie.

 

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