The Public Accounts Committee has expressed significant concerns regarding the Ministry of i-Taukei Affairs’ failure to adhere to accounting standards and procedures for the years 2020, 2021, and 2022.
During a recent hearing focused on the Ministry’s audit reports for these periods, PAC Committee Member Ketan Lal pointed out that internal controls were not properly implemented. He referenced findings from the Office of the Auditor-General which indicated that there were unauthorized payment vouchers processed by the Ministry.
Lal specifically noted that a purchase order was issued for a single laptop costing $9,300, labeling this as an unauthorized transaction. He urged the Ministry to enhance its financial controls to improve cost efficiency. He also drew attention to the procurement of an HP PC that totaled $9,052, urging the Ministry to consult the ITC Department for more cost-effective technology purchases in the future.
In response, Ministry representative Finau Mataiwalu acknowledged the concerns raised and explained that these issues occurred during the peak of the COVID-19 pandemic, when most staff were working remotely and there were insufficient personnel available to conduct thorough checks.
Mataiwalu clarified that the Ministry had actually purchased three laptops, contributing to the total of $9,300, and affirmed that purchase orders were handled through ITC, which provides quotes. He concluded by stating that measures are being implemented to strengthen financial protocols and prevent similar issues from arising in the future.