Employment: Complaint against appointment of care worker

Kari has applied for the position of care worker in the municipality where she lives and was among the applicants interviewed. However, Kari was not offered the position, but was nominated as No. 2. Kari is of the opinion that she is better qualified for the position than the person who was employed, and sends an inquiry to the Parliamentary Ombudsman, asking whether she can complain against the decision.

The Ombudsman’s office informs Kari that appointments in public administration are encompassed by the mandate of the Ombudsman, and appeals may be submitted to the Parliamentary Ombudsman. It is pointed out to her that the Ombudsman may evaluate the case processing of the municipality and the appraisal of qualifications, but that the latter appraisal is a discretionary decision on which the Ombudsman’s access to make a statement is limited. The Ombudsman also states that if Kari is a member of a Union, it may be advisable to take the matter up with the Union in the first instance. Should she wish to file a complaint, Kari must explain which appointment the case concerns, and her viewpoint on what she holds to be an incorrect decision. Kari is also requested to submit whatever case documents she has in her possession, such as the wording of the advertisement, job application, etc.