The Auditor General found that the Ministry of Agriculture had made advance payments to suppliers without obtaining the necessary approval from the Ministry of Economy (MoE).
In the report of the 2019 Economic Services Department Audit Report submitted to the Parliament, OAG found that the cost of purchasing the egg grader was US$17,500, which was paid on April 11, 2019, but was not delivered before November 20, 2019.
On July 1, 2019, $7,83.60 was paid for the purchase of 18 kilograms of barbed wire and 41 fencing nails, which will be delivered two months later.
OAG said: “This is due to the lack of proper supervision and inspection, and the responsible personnel cannot ensure that the necessary approvals are obtained before the advance payment, and follow up the supply of goods after the approval is paid.”
OAG recommends that the Ministry ensure that it obtains the necessary approvals from the Ministry of Economy before making any advance payments.
"Review training or raise awareness of its officials to ensure that they comply with established policies and procedures related to procurement."
The ministry stated that it will ensure that future advance payments are only made under special circumstances and obtain appropriate approval from the Ministry of Economic Affairs.
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Copyright © 2021 Fiji Times Limited. all rights reserved.