COI audits finally complete

The Governor’s Office announced in a press release on Friday, October 26, that the remaining Commission of Inquiry (COI) audits have now been completed.

The Governor indicated that these outstanding audits are now publicly accessible on www.auditbvi.com, though he noted some concerns within the findings.

“While some of the programmes ‘operated as intended’ and ‘served to alleviate some of the costs associated with the COVID-19 fallout,’ the audits also identified a number of concerns including on transparency, eligibility and overspends,” the Governor stated in a press release from his office.

“The Public Assistance (Amendment) Act 2024 seeks to introduce a modern and effective system for supporting those in need. There have been improvements in the way government contracts are issued, and procurements are now regularly advertised,” the press release stated.

Pruce emphasized that audits play a vital role in ensuring value for money and accountability in the use of public funds.

“They are only effective in doing so if the public is aware of the findings and the relevant agencies respond constructively. Although the audits identify challenges, it is important that we now collectively focus on strengthening our institutions to improve the way we work in the future,” he mentioned.

The press release further noted that the audits covered assistance grants for farmers and fisherfolk, the transportation stimulus initiative, grants to religious institutions, civic groups, private schools, daycare services, and grants to micro, small, and medium-sized enterprises, as well as major contracts.

According to the Governor’s Office, the audit of major contracts found that previous procurement processes were “inherently flawed,” allowing for laws or rules to be circumvented through loopholes.

“The audit identified the need for balance and equity in the award of public contracts,” the press release stated. It was also noted that lessons have been learned, with assistance grants now being overseen by the Social Development Department.

The Bill for the Public Assistance (Amendment) Act, 2024, introduced in the House of Assembly back in July and aims to overhaul the system by implementing a more thorough and humane method for assessing and meeting the needs of families struggling to afford basic necessities.

The legislation proposes a “minimum basket” of essential needs to help bridge the gap for households falling below this threshold. The legislation also seeks to address previous mismanagement highlighted by audits that revealed inefficiencies and potential misuse in fund distribution.