BackOn 25 November 2025, the Legislative Assembly recommended that Sandy Hermiston be appointed as BC’s Ombudsperson.
The Legislative Assembly’s recommendation follows the unanimous recommendation of Ms. Hermiston by a parliamentary committee. The committee, made up of members of government and opposition caucuses, conducted a comprehensive search for British Columbia’s next Ombudsperson. Ms. Hermiston will begin her term on January 31, 2026, following appointment by the Lieutenant Governor.
“The committee agreed that Sandy Hermiston’s experience as the first Ombudsperson for both the Cayman Islands and Prince Edward Island, makes her exceptionally well-equipped to take on the role of British Columbia’s Ombudsperson,” said committee chair Janet Routledge. “Members appreciated her dedication to building trust through relationship building and community outreach, and her practical, solution-focused approach.”
“Sandy Hermiston brings extensive experience overseeing complex and sensitive investigations and is widely respected both nationally and internationally—a reputation that led to her role as co-director of an advanced ombuds course at Osgoode Hall,” said deputy chair Linda Hepner. “Ms. Hermiston is deeply committed to integrity and transparency, and we are confident she will continue to promote fairness in government services.”
Committee Members expressed their gratitude to Jay Chalke, K.C., for his advocacy and steadfast commitment to public service as Ombudsperson over the past ten years.
Kindly click here to access the full media release including Ms Hermiston's biographical information.
Source: Legislative Assembly of British Columbia via the Office of the Ombudsperson British Columbia, Canada
