I think there are benefits to both approaches, but I think that reporting to Parliament provides a stronger mandate for the office.
The intent of an ombudsperson is that it's an independent authority that has the right to bring a challenge to the current approach. There's a power imbalance if that reporting can be stopped at the Minister of Justice, who's approaching issues in a particular way, rather than the wider body that represents the interest of Canadians.
When we look at something as significant as criminal justice, input of governance from a wider body is appropriate. As Heidi said, I think a move in that direction would also necessitate a stronger portfolio of funding. Even if it's not a substantial increase, some increase to bolster that capacity would be an added benefit that would significantly help victims of crime.