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Ombudsman Ontario @ombudsmanontario.bsky.social · 22h

MEDIA ADVISORY: French Language services Commissioner Carl Bouchard to release report on his investigation into services in French at ServiceOntario locations on Thursday, October 15 at 11 a.m: ow.ly/ErwS50ZVQu0

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Ombudsman Ontario @ombudsmanontario.bsky.social · 22h

Today is #OmbudsDay, a day to celebrate fairness and the work of ombuds offices around the world. Watch this video to learn how we help people navigate challenges, resolve concerns and improve public services for everyone: www.ombudsman.on.ca/en/news/medi...

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Ombudsman Ontario @ombudsmanontario.bsky.social · 06/10/2026

An electrician with international work experience contacted us in frustration after receiving multiple requests from Skilled Trades Ontario to submit documents he had already provided for a trade equivalency assessment. Here’s how we helped him: ow.ly/XUot50ZUUUv

Electrician testing installations and wiring.

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Ombudsman Ontario @ombudsmanontario.bsky.social · 05/10/2026

October is Women’s History Month, an opportunity to recognize the achievements of women and girls and acknowledge the challenges many still face. Fairness benefits everyone. Access to services, supports and opportunities should be equitable, respectful and barrier-free.

Map of Canada made of colourful squares including stock images of women. Text on image: Women’s History Month.

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Ombudsman Ontario @ombudsmanontario.bsky.social · 30/09/2026

On this National Day for Truth and Reconciliation and Orange Shirt Day, we honour the strength of Indian Residential School survivors and remember those who never returned home. Read the Acting Ombudsman’s message: ow.ly/QAnl50ZSBYe #NDTR

An image with white text and symbols on an orange background. The illustration features a feather, a narwhal and a flower, representing First Nations, Inuit and Métis. The symbols are surrounded by stars, a crescent moon, rising smoke, dotted patterns and flowing lines representing remembrance and the ongoing journey of reconciliation. Text on image: National Day for Truth and Reconciliation.

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Ombudsman Ontario @ombudsmanontario.bsky.social · 29/09/2026

September newsletter: National Day for Truth and Reconciliation - Continuing our work toward reconciliation: www.ombudsman.on.ca/en/news/news...

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Ombudsman Ontario @ombudsmanontario.bsky.social · 28/09/2026

Thank you to executives of Assemblée de la francophonie de l'Ontario for visiting on Sept.25. We appreciated the thoughtful discussion on the priorities of Francophone communities across Ontario and look forward to reconnecting at the AFO Annual Conference in October. (BF) (CB)

Barbara Finlay, Acting Ombudsman, and Carl Bouchard, French Language Services Commissioner, with members of the AFO.

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Ombudsman Ontario @ombudsmanontario.bsky.social · 28/09/2026

We can help with education-related issues in Ontario, including concerns about early childhood education, school boards, colleges and universities, adult learning, and more.

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Ombudsman Ontario @ombudsmanontario.bsky.social · 25/09/2026

Today, our Office celebrated Franco-Ontarian Day at Queen’s Park, Toronto City Hall and our office. Commissioner Carl Bouchard and Acting Ombudsman Barbara Finlay attended the flag-raising ceremony at Queen’s Park, followed by a reception at the Lieutenant Governor’s Suite.

Ontario Ombudsman’s Office, seated and standing in our office common area, many wearing green and proudly holding Franco-Ontarian flags.

Ombudsman Ontario staff standing outside a Toronto City Hall on a sunny day, many wearing green and holding franco-ontarian flags.

Ombudsman Ontario staff standing outside a Queen's Park on a sunny day, many wearing green and holding franco-ontarian flags.

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Ombudsman Ontario @ombudsmanontario.bsky.social · 24/09/2026

New parents of twins sought our help after they submitted applications to register the births of both children, but inexplicably only received one registration. Here’s how we helped them: ombudsman.on.ca/en/our-work/case-st…

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Ombudsman Ontario @ombudsmanontario.bsky.social · 23/09/2026

On this #InternationalDayOfSignLanguages, let’s support the rights of deaf people and celebrate the unique linguistic identities of sign languages around the world.

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Ombudsman Ontario @ombudsmanontario.bsky.social · 22/09/2026

We can help resolve problems about hundreds of government and public sector organizations, and it’s free to contact us. Learn more about what happens after you submit a complaint: ombudsman.on.ca/en/make-complaint/w…

Paper cutout figures representing a diverse group of people, including a wheelchair user, standing on a table while two hands are positioned protectively behind them.

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Ombudsman Ontario @ombudsmanontario.bsky.social · 18/09/2026

It was a pleasure to meet with Mario Baril, National Defence and Canadian Armed Forces Ombudsman. We had a great discussion about the importance of fairness and supporting the people who turn to our Offices for help. Thank you for the thoughtful exchange. (BF)

Mario Baril, National Defence and Canadian Armed Forces Ombudsman with Barbara Finlay, Acting Ontario Ombudsman.

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Ombudsman Ontario @ombudsmanontario.bsky.social · 18/09/2026

Tomorrow, our French Language Services Unit will participate in an event organized by the Association des francophones de la région de York as part of York Region’s Welcoming Week. Stop by our booth to learn more about your linguistic rights and services in French in Ontario.

Groupe diversifié de personnes qui réseautent lors d’un événement professionnel dans un édifice moderne, avec des bannières de la Semaine de l’accueil (Welcoming Week) de la région de York. Diverse group of people networking at a professional event in a modern building with banners about York Region Welcoming Week.

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Ombudsman Ontario @ombudsmanontario.bsky.social · 17/09/2026

The mother of an Indigenous student sought our help after her daughter, who was a victim of cyberbullying and racist comments, was denied a transfer to a new school within the same school board. See how we helped her: www.ombudsman.on.ca/en/our-work/cas…

Child sitting with knees pulled close, holding a smartphone in both hands. The image uses dark lighting with blue and red tones, illustrating the theme of cyberbullying

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Ombudsman Ontario @ombudsmanontario.bsky.social · 15/09/2026

Every year on September 15, the world marks the International Day of Democracy, an opportunity to reflect on the values that sustain democratic societies: Fairness, accountability, transparency and respect for people's rights.

Collage featuring Acting Ombudsman Barbara Finlay, Chief Justice Michael Tulloch, French language services Commissioner Carl Bouchard, and Ombudsman Ontario staff at various events.

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Ombudsman Ontario @ombudsmanontario.bsky.social · 14/09/2026

Young people in care have a right to be informed about and contact the Ombudsman when they have a problem. Keep them in the know by requesting some of our many resources: ow.ly/pijB50ZIgH1

An illustrated kitchen with cabinets and a fridge. Throughout the image are pictures of Ombudsman Ontario resources including large posters, brochures, one-pagers and fridge magnets.

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Ombudsman Ontario @ombudsmanontario.bsky.social · 10/09/2026

On this #WorldSuicidePreventionDay, take time to check in with your loved ones. Together, we can build a more supportive and understanding society that ensures everyone gets the help they need.

Hands circling a yellow and orange ribbon symbolizing suicide prevention. Text on image: World Suicide Prevention Day.

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Ombudsman Ontario @ombudsmanontario.bsky.social · 08/09/2026

Today is back to school for many Ontario students! Did you know we can assist with fairness issues related to school boards and post-secondary education? Read more about how we can help: www.ombudsman.on.ca/en/make-complai…

Back-to-school graphic featuring colorful school supplies and alphabet letters on a gray background.

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Ombudsman Ontario @ombudsmanontario.bsky.social · 04/09/2026

Our staff will not be available Monday, September 7. Complaints can still be filed via email at info@ombudsman.on.ca or via our online complaint form here: www.ombudsman.on.ca/en/make-complai…

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Ombudsman Ontario @ombudsmanontario.bsky.social · 03/09/2026

Children and youth in care have the right to receive good care which includes access to healthy food, clothing and an education that meets their needs. Learn more: ow.ly/A4Zp50ZBEpv

White circles of various sizes on a green background. A large circle in the middle contains a smaller yellow circle with an icon with two hands holding up a house. Text on image: Good care.

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Ombudsman Ontario @ombudsmanontario.bsky.social · 01/09/2026

Several parents in a new subdivision contacted us after they were told their children, who had previously been bused to school, were ineligible for busing because they did not live far enough away from the school. Here’s how we helped them: ombudsman.on.ca/en/our-work/case-st…

Row of yellow school buses parked side by side.

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Ombudsman Ontario @ombudsmanontario.bsky.social · 31/08/2026

August newsletter: Students and families, municipalities, Francophones and youth – we’re here for you: www.ombudsman.on.ca/en/news/newslet…

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Ombudsman Ontario @ombudsmanontario.bsky.social · 28/08/2026

Did you know the Ombudsman can assist with fairness issues related to post-secondary education? Here’s how we helped an Indigenous woman whose OSAP grant had been converted into a loan after an incorrect income assessment: www.ombudsman.on.ca/en/our-work/cas…

Graduation cap on a calculator beside stacks of coins, representing education costs and student funding.

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Ombudsman Ontario @ombudsmanontario.bsky.social · 27/08/2026

During a past election, some Francophones contacted us to inform us about the lack of French language services in the voting process. We intervened, and Elections Ontario committed to improving its planning. Read more here: www.ombudsman.on.ca/en/our-work/cas…

Illustration of a green ballot box with the word ‘VOTE’ in capital letters. A grey card marked with a green checkmark is being inserted into the slot on top.

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Ombudsman Ontario @ombudsmanontario.bsky.social · 26/08/2026

Educators, aids and social workers have a duty to report risks of harm to a child or youth. Learn about this and the information you can share with children’s aid societies by consulting our “Yes, You Can” booklet: ow.ly/MzXx50Zut0q

A large illustration of a green chalkboard on a light blue background. Tapped to the chalkboard is the cover of the Yes, You Can booklet. Text on image: Welcome back! Our first lesson: Duty to report.

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Ombudsman Ontario @ombudsmanontario.bsky.social · 26/08/2026

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Ombudsman Ontario @ombudsmanontario.bsky.social · 24/08/2026

It’s almost back-to-school season! We can help with your concerns about school board issues, early childhood education and daycare, post-secondary issues, adult learning and more: www.ombudsman.on.ca/en/make-complai…

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Ombudsman Ontario @ombudsmanontario.bsky.social · 20/08/2026

It was a pleasure to meet with the team at TAIBU Community Health Centre. I was inspired by the growth of its French-language programs and services and by its dedication to supporting the Francophone community. Thank you for the warm welcome and valuable discussions. (CB)

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Ombudsman Ontario @ombudsmanontario.bsky.social · 18/08/2026

Children and youth in care have rights that ensure their voices are heard and their environments are safe, fair and respectful. Learn more about the rights of young people and how we help: ow.ly/ORmn50ZAFJ8

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Ombudsman Ontario @ombudsmanontario.bsky.social · 17/08/2026

Did you know we can help solve problems with social services and benefits in Ontario? Our services are confidential and free. Learn more and contact us today: ombudsman.on.ca/en/make-complaint/w…

Close-up of two people’s hands clasped together in a supportive gesture.

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Ombudsman Ontario @ombudsmanontario.bsky.social · 16/08/2026

We’re in Ottawa for the annual conference for the Association of Municipalities of Ontario today and tomorrow! Can’t attend? You can explore how we help resolve municipal complaints and check out our resources here: www.ombudsman.on.ca/en/info-publ...

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Ombudsman Ontario @ombudsmanontario.bsky.social · 14/08/2026

Happy to join the celebrations for La Clé’s 30th anniversary this Saturday in Penetanguishene. Congratulations to all those who, for the past 30 years, have contributed to the vitality and dynamism of the Francophone community in the region. (CB)

Celebration poster marking La Clé’s 30 years of dedication and service to the Francophone community since 1996, as part of an event taking place on August 15, 2026, in Penetanguishene.

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Ombudsman Ontario @ombudsmanontario.bsky.social · 12/08/2026

Municipal meetings should always be open to the public, with a few narrow exceptions. We created the Open Meetings Case Digest to explain how we apply open meeting rules. Learn more: www.ombudsman.on.ca/en/info-public-…

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Ombudsman Ontario @ombudsmanontario.bsky.social · 11/08/2026

A young man who had been in care told us that his request for a Voluntary Youth Services Agreement was denied by his agency because his mother wouldn’t co-operate. We raised this case with the agency, which granted him a VYSA so he could receive care: ow.ly/IR8E50Zs2N4

On a dark purple background, the illustration of a person holding a tablet. A large thought bubble is to the right of the person, inside are illustrations of a house, money and a heart.

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Ombudsman Ontario @ombudsmanontario.bsky.social · 06/08/2026

We’ll be at the Tyendinaga Traditional Pow Wow this weekend, August 8-9! Stop by and learn more about how we can help you navigate Ontario’s public services.

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Ombudsman Ontario @ombudsmanontario.bsky.social · 05/08/2026

We’re here to help with issues related to provincial public services. As one person told us when we resolved their concern: “This would not have happened if I didn’t call you. I wanted to thank you for that.” Contact us today: www.ombudsman.on.ca/en/make-complai…

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Ombudsman Ontario @ombudsmanontario.bsky.social · 04/08/2026

A Francophone who wanted a personalized licence plate in French tried to apply for one online, but realized that only English personalized plates could be ordered online – not French. See how we helped him: www.ombudsman.on.ca/en/our-work/cas…

Ontario licence plate with Franco-Ontarian flag graphic and the slogan “Yours to Discover” in French.

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Ombudsman Ontario @ombudsmanontario.bsky.social · 03/08/2026

Our staff are not available today. We will be back at work tomorrow, on August 4. Complaints can still be filed via email at info@ombudsman.on.ca or via our online complaint form here: www.ombudsman.on.ca/en/make-complai…

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Ombudsman Ontario @ombudsmanontario.bsky.social · 31/07/2026

Service providers are obligated to inform young people in care about the Ombudsman’s Office, including what we do, and allow them to contact us privately and without delay. Learn more: ow.ly/XrOp50Znu4E

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Ombudsman Ontario @ombudsmanontario.bsky.social · 30/07/2026

July newsletter: Building strong partnerships across Ontario, one community at a time: ombudsman.on.ca/en/news/newsletter

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Ombudsman Ontario @ombudsmanontario.bsky.social · 30/07/2026

A woman was concerned about erosion on her property from a nearby river. Because her municipality is not overseen by a conservation authority, there was confusion about the roles in managing any environmental hazards. Find out how we helped her: ow.ly/LSAo50ZqI3O

Damaged house foundations due to erosion.

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Ombudsman Ontario @ombudsmanontario.bsky.social · 29/07/2026

French Language Services Commissioner Carl Bouchard is happy to have participated in the documentary “Un festival en héritage”, which will be featured as part of an immersive exhibit at the Sommet de la Francophonie in Cambodia this fall[AB1.1][EB1.2]: www.youtube.com/watch?v=U0YVn_fanmA

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Ombudsman Ontario @ombudsmanontario.bsky.social · 28/07/2026

In Ontario, many meetings of public officials are required to be open to the public, with certain narrow exceptions. Learn what to do if you suspect a meeting was improperly closed: www.ombudsman.on.ca/en/info-public-…

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Ombudsman Ontario @ombudsmanontario.bsky.social · 23/07/2026

We’re here to help with issues related to provincial public services. As one person told us: “You resolved in one day what took me 8 months of calling to try to resolve. It’s such a helpful service.” Contact us today: www.ombudsman.on.ca/en/make-comp...

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Ombudsman Ontario @ombudsmanontario.bsky.social · 22/07/2026

A Francophone believed that the complaint form for the Inspectorate of Policing was available only in English. Following our intervention, a notice was added to the English version to indicate that a French version is available: www.ombudsman.on.ca/en/our-work/cas…

Laptop on a desk displaying a webpage with 'Available in French' text

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Ombudsman Ontario @ombudsmanontario.bsky.social · 21/07/2026

We have brochures in multiple languages, including Indigenous languages, as well as Arabic, Chinese, Farsi, Hindi, Punjabi, Russian, Somali, Spanish, Tagalog, Turkish and more! Download them here: www.ombudsman.on.ca/en/our-work/bro…

Ombudsman Ontario multilingual brochures.

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Ombudsman Ontario @ombudsmanontario.bsky.social · 20/07/2026

Our Children and Youth Unit regularly meets with young people, service providers, social workers and students to discuss youth rights and the work of our Office. If your organization is interested in a presentation, reach out: ow.ly/irFh50ZlBJ8

A collage of images of Ombudsman Ontario staff giving presentations and staffing booths at events.

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