EU Parliament Reelects Ombudsman with Overwhelming Majority

The European Parliament reelected on Tuesday the incumbent European Ombudsman Emily O'Reilly with a large majority.

O'Reilly was first elected to the position in 2013, succeeding her predecessor Nikiforos Diamandouros upon his retirement.

O'Reilly who was the only candidate in the ballot on Tuesday, was reelected with overwhelming support, as 569 MEPs voted in favour, 66 against, while 43 abstained.

She is to serve as European Ombudsman from 2014 to 2019, coinciding with the current term of the Parliament.

Following her reelection, O'Reilly expressed her gratitude to the Parliament for the broad support, that had originated from all parties.

She assured for a continuity in her work, hoping that this will bring about improvements to European Union (EU) administration, which will be of benefit to all European citizens.

The European Ombudsman investigates complaints about maladministration of EU institutions and bodies.

Complaints can be submitted by anyone living in the EU or possessing an official citizenship, as well as companies and associations that have their offices based in the EU.