By JASON KOM KAUT
THE Morobe provincial audit committee was launched last Friday by Finance Minister Patrick Pruaitch.
Morobe is only the second province to set up an audit committee, an initiative of former Treasurer Bart Philemon and former Finance secretary Thaddeus Kambanei, aimed at improving accountability and reporting in public entities.
It joins 16 other entities that have implemented audit committees including 12 national department’s, three statutory authorities and the Eastern Highlands provincial administration.
The setting up of audit committees was made possible in 2004 following amendments to the Public Finance (Management) Act (PFMA).
The amendment to the PFMA provided for the establishment of internal audit units and audit committees in national departments, public bodies, provincial governments, local-level government’s and other entities that received grants from the State and are subject to the Audit Act 1989.
Finance Secretary Mr Yer had the responsibility and legal power to implement this initiative.
Mr Pruaitch said the Morobe government had received a “good level of funding” and these funds must be properly accounted for showing good accountability and transparency of public monies.
“I challenge the department of Morobe to use the resources made available by this government properly and respectfully for delivery of goods and services,” Mr Pruaitch said.
While commending the Auditor General’s Office for its active and continued participation to the establishment and operation of audit committees he called for greater partnerships between all stakeholders at all levels of governance.
Present at the launch was Auditor-General George Sulliman.
kPM’sgolf -350 words and picture for Sports
Mainland Holdings Limited wins the Prime Ministers Corporate Golf Challenge that was a day-long success last Friday at the Lae Gold Club.