(1) In this section, "confidential information" includes information that is expressed by the Ombudsman to be confidential either as regards particular information or information of a particular class or description.

(2) A person shall not, unless authorised by the Ombudsman or required by law, disclose any confidential information obtained by him or her while performing, or as a result of having performed, duties as any of the following:

(a) the Deputy Ombudsman;

(b) a member of the Council;

(c) a member of the staff of the Ombudsman;

(d) a consultant or adviser to the Ombudsman appointed under section 16.

(3) Subsection (2) shall not operate to prevent the disclosure of information -

(a) in a report to the Ombudsman, or

(b) by or on behalf of the Ombudsman to a Minister of the Government.

(4) A person who contravenes subsection (2) commits an offence and shall be liable on summary conviction to a class A fine.