(1) The Pensions Ombudsman shall be independent in the performance of his functions.
(2) The Pensions Ombudsman may investigate and determine the following complaints and disputes -
(a) a complaint made to him by or on behalf of an actual or potential beneficiary of an occupational pension scheme, trust RAC or PRSA, who alleges that he has sustained financial loss occasioned by an act of maladministration done by or on behalf of a person responsible for the management of that scheme, trust RAC or PRSA;
(b) any dispute of fact or law that arises in relation to an act done by or on behalf of a person responsible for the management of the scheme, trust RAC or PRSA, and that is referred to him by or on behalf of the actual or potential beneficiary; and
(c) any other complaint or dispute falling within a category of complaint or dispute prescribed by regulations made by the Minister, with the consent of the Minister for Public Expenditure and Reform, as a category of complaint or dispu