His Excellency Governor Daniel Pruce announced on Friday that the remaining audits, conducted as part of the British Virgin Islands (BVI) Commission of Inquiry, have been published and are accessible to the public.
The audits, available on www.auditbvi.com, cover COVID-19 assistance grants and government contracts over $100,000 and include reviews of programs aimed at farmers, fisherfolk, and small businesses.
The five completed audits focus on: COVID-19 grants for farmers and fisherfolk; Transportation stimulus initiative; Grants to religious institutions, civic groups, private schools, and daycares; Grants to micro, small, and medium-sized enterprises; and Government contracts exceeding $100,000.
Governor Pruce highlighted that while some of the programmes were effective in offsetting costs related to the COVID-19 pandemic, the audits raised concerns about transparency, eligibility, and overspending. The audit of major government contracts found issues within the previous procurement framework, citing that it was “inherently flawed” and prone to “circumvention.” The report stressed that new procurement regulations are addressing these issues but emphasized the need for “adequate oversight and strict compliance.”
Governor Pruce also acknowledged recent improvements within the government. He noted that assistance grants are now administered by the Social Development Department and that the Public Assistance (Amendment) Act 2024 will provide a more modern system for supporting those in need. Furthermore, he pointed out that government contract procurement now includes regular advertising to ensure transparency.
Audits, the governor remarked, are critical tools in promoting accountability and ensuring public funds are used effectively. He commended the Auditor General for her dedication to advancing good governance in the BVI, calling on the public to stay informed on the findings and on agencies to respond constructively to the reports.