A new department to receive complaints and suggestions is being launched by Bahrain’s Housing Ministry as part of a new open-door policy.

The facility already exists on its website, but forms will now be made available at its Diplomatic Area headquarters along with a box where people can submit feedback, said a report in the Gulf Daily News (GDN), our sister publication.

A special department will be created to follow up complaints and suggestions, while the ministry is also revamping its website, launching official ministry social networking accounts and establishing a communications centre.

It is being done based on a directive from His Royal Highness Prime Minister Prince Khalifa bin Salman Al Khalifa.

“The goal of his highness was to improve the ways that the ministry communicates with people,” said a Housing Ministry spokeswoman.

“People can now make suggestions or complain online, but many didn’t know that was an option.

“We have also made an area in the ministry where people can file their complaints or suggestions.

“There is no limitations on the complaints or suggestions, you ask about delays, problems with housing or give ideas to make something better.”

The ministry has pledged to respond to each complaint or suggestion within 30 days.

“Before this people would come down to the ministry and register a complaint with a staff member or go to the media,” the spokeswoman added.

“Now they can do it from their home online or by filling out a simple form at the ministry.”

She added that all complaints would be taken seriously and referred to senior officials to take appropriate action.

The ministry is currently seeking to provide homes for around 60,000 social housing applicants and last year announced plans to 
build 40,000 homes in eight years. - TradeArabia News Service