Such distinction between functions and services increases the complexity of access for a complainant, reduces their ability to have their issues resolved effectively and efficiently, increases the burden on the Community Services Commission and other complaint handling bodies, increases the burden and complexity for service providers, and does not allow effective resolution of complaints through one dedicated consumer protection body. The key aspect of complaint handling for the Commission is to effect early and local resolution of complaints wherever possible. A summary of the nature of complaints and investigations handled by the Commission last year is set forth in the latest Annual Report, an extract of which is enclosed. The Commission was established to develop a body of expertise in relation to the full range of community services. The Second Reading speech specifically talks about the broad range of activities of the Commission and those users of community services likely to be impacted.
Specific reference is made to the interest of wards of the state and people with disabilities.
In addition, reference is made to providing a safety net for clients and assistance for people who are disadvantaged. No distinction was made between functions and services. The Commission is designed to deal with all of the issues that may arise in connection with community services broadly defined. The significant work of the Commission over the past six years demonstrates this expertise across the community services areas. Informed by information from the complaint handling and investigations, reviews of children and young people in care and people with disabilities in care, issues raised by Community Visitors and inquiries conducted, this gamut of activities by the Commission are meant to inform both the Minister and service providers in relation to areas of critical concern and ways to improve the delivery of community services at both a service provider and systemic level.