Investigation procedure and evidence Section 15: Obstruction and contempt
55.Section 15(1) and (2) enable the Ombudsman to certify to the High Court that, in his/her opinion, a person has without lawful excuse obstructed him/her (or a member of his/her staff etc.) in the discharge of his/her functions under Part 2 or that the person has acted in a way that, if the act was done in relation to High Court proceedings, would amount to a contempt of court.
56.The Ombudsman cannot issue such a certificate if the alleged obstruction or contempt arises merely because the person concerned has taken some further action in respect of the matter under investigation (see section 15(3) and section 13(6)).
57.If the Ombudsman issues such a certificate then the High Court may inquire into the matter and if the High Court finds that the person concerned has obstructed the Ombudsman, the High Court may deal with the person as if he/she had committed contempt in relation to the High Court (section 15(5)).