Whistle-blowers inside the U.S. Justice Department have a new ally…Michael Horowitz, the department’s inspector general, announced the creation of a “Whistle-blower Ombudsperson,” a role designed to increase the attention paid to whistle-blowers, as well as providing a new level of protection from retaliation.

“Whistle-blowers play a critical role in uncovering waste, fraud, abuse, and mismanagement and this new position will enable the OIG to continue its leadership as a strong and independent voice within the Department of Justice on whistle- blower issues,” Horowitz said in a statement.

Robert Storch, who recently joined the inspector general’s office as a counselor, will serve in the new position…

The new position will have oversight over all of the Justice Department whistle-blower complaints and will be responsible for ensuring that the inspector general reviews and responds to each one. The official also will monitor investigations into retaliation claims and serve as the office’s liaison to other agencies and outside advocacy groups.

Overdue.