Internal Auditors Hailed for Helping to Fight Corruption

Minister of State in the Finance and Public Service Ministry, Hon Fayval Williams, has hailed internal auditors for their work in aiding the fight against corruption in many entities.

Speaking at the Institute of Internal Auditors (IIA) anniversary banquet and awards ceremony, at the Spanish Court Hotel in New Kingston, on May 28, Mrs. Williams emphasised the costliness of corruption to the nation and to public trust.

The State Minister also noted the valuable contributions of internal auditors to the promotion of good governance.

Acknowledging Jamaica’s low ranking on the 2015 Corruption Perception Index (CPI), Mrs. Williams indicated that the role of Government and the people must be to improve the standing.

Mrs. Williams emphasised that questions related to transparency must be at the forefront of the minds of internal auditors when conducting their duties,  and that questions about the adherence to the rule of law, equitability and inclusiveness and accountability are always to be considered.

Citing research from Lawrence B. Sawyer, who is said to be the founding father of modern internal auditing, Mrs. Williams suggested  that the techniques of internal auditors must move from being reactive and control-based to a more proactive and risk-based approach.

“This enables the internal auditor to anticipate possible future concerns and opportunities providing insurance advice and insight where it is most needed,” the State Minister said.

Genieve Suer was presented with the award for Exceptional Advocacy, while Jacqueline Mothersille was given the 2016 Volunteer of the Year award.

To build awareness of internal auditing all around the world, May is designated as International Internal Audit Awareness Month. The Jamaican chapter has over 400 members.