GOJ Audit Committees Commended

Government of Jamaica (GOJ) Audit Committees have been commended by Cabinet Secretary, Audrey Sewell, for their commitment and achievements.

Speaking during Thursday’s (November 9) GOJ Audit Committees’ Conference 2023 at The Summit in New Kingston, Mrs. Sewell disclosed that committees have achieved consistent year-on-year improvement of approximately 20 per cent in responsiveness to audit queries and the implementation of audit recommendations.

She also disclosed that there has been a reduction in the arrears of financial statements over the past two years at several ministries, departments and agencies (MDAs), some of which were up to seven years behind.

“Thank you for being here and for your continued commitment and dedication, despite the many frustrations,” Mrs. Sewell said.

The Cabinet Secretary, who has responsibility for appointing members to audit committees, expressed her commitment to strengthening the capacity of these bodies through a rigorous selection and appointment process that ensures that they comprise qualified and committed members with the appropriate mix of skills and competencies to do the job effectively and efficiently.

“I will also take keen interest in the upskilling of audit committee members as the regulatory and legislative environment of the Government changes,” Mrs. Sewell said.

She explained that the Data Protection Act, which takes effect on December 1, will place new demands on ministries to appoint Data Protection Officers and is one area on which auditors and audit committees will need to be sensitised.