4 Apr 2005

Vanuatu's ombudsman says he will iron out corruption in his new role

7:10 pm on 4 April 2005

Vanuatu's new ombudsman says he's been taken aback at the types of cases currently under investigation by the office.

Peter Taurakoto was appointed ombudsman last Friday by President Kalkot Mataskelekele.

He says details of case files are confidential until investigations are complete, but Mr Taurakoto said he had his work cut out for him.

"It's unbelievable to see the types of things this office is handling. I feel my job is to assist leaders to provide services that they are appointed to provide for our people. If they're not doing that service to our people, then I feel its my job to chase them and get them out of wrongdoing and corruption."

Peter Taurakoto, who comes from the island of Lelepa in North Efate, is Vanuatu's third ombudsman.