A person required by the ombudsman to provide information shall be paid the same fees and travel allowances as are extended to witnesses whose attendance has been required in the district courts of this state. Officers and employees of an agency shall not be entitled to such fees and allowances. A person who, with or without service of compulsory process, provides oral or documentary information requested by the ombudsman shall be accorded the same privileges and immunities as are extended to witnesses in the courts of this state, and shall also be entitled to be accompanied and advised by counsel while being questioned.
C93, §2C.21