The Sugar Industry Tribunal is facing significant challenges in meeting its financial reporting obligations due to a shortage of staff, frequent resignations, and budget constraints. Timothy Brown, the Tribunal’s Registrar and Industrial Commissioner, voiced these concerns during a recent appearance before the Standing Committee on Public Accounts, where he discussed the 2021-2022 Audit Report for various financial bodies.
Brown stated that the Tribunal has struggled to produce timely financial statements, with the 2021 report submitted for audit just recently. Work on the accounts for 2022 and 2023 is still in progress, revealing a considerable delay in compliance with fiscal responsibilities. He attributed the backlog to a high turnover of accountants that has hindered the continuity necessary for efficient financial monitoring. “We’re going through one accountant after the other. When one leaves, the next person must familiarize themselves with our systems,” Brown explained, highlighting the need for professional assistance which has not been feasible due to financial limitations.
To address the backlog, the Tribunal has hired a chartered accountant with prior experience in the organization. However, committee member Alvick Maharaj raised concerns over the hiring process, questioning if it adhered to legal tender requirements. In response, Brown assured that they would strictly follow the appropriate procurement processes moving forward.
Despite these difficulties, Brown remains optimistic about resolving outstanding accounts by the end of the current year, emphasizing the commitment to improving the Tribunal’s financial governance. This outlook aligns with broader efforts highlighted in similar reports focusing on the importance of training and support for finance personnel across other sectors, such as the iTaukei Affairs Ministry, which continues to enhance financial accountability through improved systems and processes.
The proactive approach taken by the Tribunal in hiring experienced professionals and reframing its financial strategies indicates a positive direction toward overcoming these obstacles. Implementing structured financial practices not only strengthens organizational integrity but also plays a vital role in reassuring the public about the Tribunal’s commitment to accountability and transparency.
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