The legislative assembly announced Tuesday (Nov. 25) its recommendation for Sandy Hermiston to be appointed as B.C.’s next ombudsperson.
A parliamentary committee made up of government and opposition MLAs conducted a thorough search for the province’s next independent government watchdog. The committee unanimously recommended Hermiston for the role.
Once she has been officially appointed by the lieutenant governor, Hermiston will begin her term as B.C.’s next ombudsperson on Jan. 31, 2026.
Hermiston has spent more than three decades as a lawyer in public service and has extensive experience in ombuds practice. She is a recognized expert in the field who co-directs an advanced ombuds course at York University’s Osgoode Hall Law School.
She became the first ombudsperson of the Cayman Islands in 2017, being credited with consolidating the offices of the information and complaints commissioners. New data protection laws and a police conduct complaints system were established during her term.
In 2022, Hermiston was appointed the first ombudsperson of Prince Edward Island. Her work as the ombudsperson of Prince Edward Island quickly gained national attention for its innovative approach, proving Hermiston’s skill in helping establish government accountability systems.
Committee chair Janet Routledge said the committee believes Hermiston’s specific experience and focus on “building trust through relationship building and community outreach” make her well-suited to take on the role as the province’s next ombudsperson.
Hermiston will be stepping into the role following the departure of Jay Chalke, B.C.’s longest-serving ombudsperson, whom the committee thanked for his decade of advocacy and commitment. He was first appointed in May 2015.
The committee expressed high regard for Hermiston’s experience and dedication, and deputy chair Linda Hepner praised Hermiston as a highly respected figure in ombuds practice at an international level
“Ms. Hermiston is deeply committed to integrity and transparency, and we are confident she will continue to promote fairness in government services.”
Sally Ji is a Kwantlen Polytechnic University practicum student working with Black Press Media.