A new proposed Auditor General Act, 2021 was introduced today for second reading in the House of Assembly. If passed, the legislation will strengthen the Office of the Auditor General as it provides independent oversight and ensures that public dollars and other resources are being used as effectively as possible.
The current legislation covering the Office of the Auditor General was enacted in 1991 and there have been only minor amendments since that time. This proposed, modernized legislation would enhance the independence of the Office of the Auditor General, expand access to information for the Office and increase transparency.
Some of the proposed changes include:
- Enhancing the scope of the Auditor General by making it the default auditor, and coordinator for audits using outside firms, for all Crown agencies;
- Allowing the Office to audit the expenditure of government funds including grants provided to persons, corporations and organizations;
- Allowing the Auditor General access to additional records including cabinet records;
- Enabling the Auditor General to undertake performance audits in addition to financial audits; and
- Adding offences under the Act with penalties for obstruction including fines of up to $1,000 and/or imprisonment up to three months.
The proposed Auditor General Act, 2021 was developed in consultation with the current and previous Auditor Generals.
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“This government is committed to transparency and accountability, especially when it comes to spending public funds. The proposed Auditor General Act, 2021 supports that commitment by enhancing the Auditor’s General scope of work as the Office carries out important oversight on behalf of the residents of Newfoundland and Labrador.”
Honourable Steve Crocker
Government House Leader
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Auditor General Act, 2021
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Luke Joyce
Executive Council
709-729-0084
lukejoyce@gov.nl.ca