The Public Accounts Committee has expressed significant concerns regarding the Ministry of i-Taukei Affairs’ failure to comply with accounting standards and procedures for the years 2020, 2021, and 2022.
During a recent hearing focused on the ministry’s audit reports for these years, PAC member Ketan Lal pointed out that the ministry had not adhered to necessary internal controls. The Office of the Auditor-General highlighted various weaknesses, including the unauthorized processing and payment of vouchers.
Lal noted an instance where a purchase order for a laptop totaled $9,300, which he described as an unauthorized payment. He emphasized the need for the ministry to enhance its financial controls in order to save funds. Additionally, he raised concerns about another purchase of an HP desktop computer, which cost $9,052.
Lal urged the Ministry of i-Taukei Affairs to collaborate with the ITC Department to procure more cost-effective computers in the future. In response, Finau Mataiwalu, a representative from the ministry, acknowledged the points made by Lal, stating that these purchases occurred during the peak of the COVID-19 pandemic when most staff were working from home and there were insufficient personnel available to conduct the usual checks.
Mataiwalu clarified that the ministry had purchased three laptops for the $9,300 total, not just one, and confirmed that they usually follow protocol by consulting the ITC for quotes. She assured that the ministry is implementing stronger financial procedures to address these issues and prevent them from arising again.