Legislation for an ombudsman will be introduced in the next few months, Premier Alex Scott has revealed.

The post has been promised in the last two throne speeches. Scope for the role was set up under the Bermuda Constitution Amendment Order 2001.

The Ombudsman ? who will be independently appointed and, like the Auditor General, report to the Governor ? will act as a citizens? advocate when Government departments perform poorly.

In 2002 then Premier Jennifer Smith said work on the initiative was well underway and she said the Government would shortly receive a report containing recommendations on the role and responsibilities of the post.

Yesterday Premier Alex Scott told : ?After wide consultation both locally and internationally, the proposal for the ombudsman is in its final stages and, as noted in the Throne Speech, the legislation will be tabled in the House before the end of this session.?

He said wide consultation has ensured the broadest view possible on the jurisdiction and role of the office of Ombudsman.

?Bermuda has had the opportunity to take advantage of the learning in other jurisdictions. We believe we are crafting the best possible legislative arrangement for Bermuda.?