The Public Accounts Committee (PAC) has expressed significant concerns regarding the Ministry of i-Taukei Affairs’ failure to comply with accounting principles and procedures for the years 2020, 2021, and 2022.
During a recent hearing focused on the ministry’s audit reports for those years, PAC member Ketan Lal pointed out that internal controls were not being followed strictly. He referenced issues noted by the Office of the Auditor-General regarding the ministry’s internal control processes, including unauthorised payment vouchers.
Lal highlighted a particular instance where a purchase order led to a payment of $9,300 for a laptop, describing it as an unauthorised transaction. He also referenced another purchase, noting that an HP PC cost $9,052. Lal urged the ministry to enhance its financial controls to prevent unnecessary expenditures, suggesting the use of the ITC Department to procure more cost-effective laptops and computers in the future.
In response, Finau Mataiwalu, a representative from the Ministry of i-Taukei Affairs, acknowledged the concerns raised and explained that these purchases occurred during the peak of the COVID-19 pandemic, when most staff were working from home. Mataiwalu clarified that three laptops were purchased for a total of $9,300, not just one, and confirmed that the ministry does work with the ITC to raise purchase orders and obtain quotes.
Mataiwalu also stated that the ministry is implementing stronger financial procedures to address these issues and prevent them from recurring.