(1) The conduct of investigations under this Part shall be undertaken as the Ombudsman considers appropriate in all the circumstances of the case and in a manner that is appropriate and proportionate to the nature of the complaint.

(2) The Ombudsman shall advise the parties to the complaint in writing of the conduct of investigation to be undertaken under subsection (1).

(3) Where the Ombudsman proposes to conduct an investigation into a complaint made under this Part, he or she shall provide the parties, and any other person who, in the opinion of the Ombudsman, might be adversely affected by any decision he or she may make in relation to the complaint, an opportunity to -

(a) make submissions with respect to the conduct the subject of the complaint, and

(b) comment on any allegations contained in the complaint or reference.

(4) The Ombudsman shall, without prejudice to the form of investigation, ensure investigations are conducted otherwise than in public.