The federal government has appointed a Taxpayers’ Ombudsman, who will operate independently from the Canada Revenue Agency to ensure that the CRA is more accountable.

The ombudsman’s responsibilities will include: ensuring that the CRA upholds the Taxpayer Bill of Rights’ service-related provisions; determining whether the CRA has properly handled a service complaint, in situations where taxpayers feel they have not been treated fairly or appropriately; identifying systemic and emerging service-related issues that have a negative impact on taxpayers; and, providing advice and recommendations to the Minister of National Revenue about service-related matters in the CRA.

Gordon O’Connor, Minister of National Revenue, today announced the appointment of Paul Dubé as the first ombudsman.

“Today’s announcement, when combined with last year’s introduction of the Taxpayers’ Bill of Rights, clearly demonstrates our government commitment to strong accountability and tax fairness,” said O’Connor in a release. “The Taxpayers’ Ombudsman will ensure that Canadians receive a high standard of service from CRA.”

“My goal is to help ensure that Canada continues to have one of the fairest, efficient and open system of tax and benefit administration possible,” said Dubé “I am dedicated to do my part to help CRA enhance accountability and service to the public, and provide taxpayers with assurance that they will be treated fairly and with respect.”