Page 1951 - Week 07 - Wednesday, 16 June 1993
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understanding of the circumstances of advice given to the people concerned, the adequacy of that advice, and the question of the legality of the actions subsequently taken by those concerned. The committee was satisfied that adequate and comprehensive advice was provided, and that, whilst the severance payment in question was in accordance with the Act, it was not considered an appropriate method by which to cease employment. Madam Speaker, it is unfortunate for this Assembly that the Auditor-General found it necessary to comment adversely on a question such as this. Given that this issue relates to two of our peers, I believe that it was a difficult section of the Auditor-General's report for the committee to consider.
The second question raised in this part of our report refers to comments made by several witnesses at public hearings. It relates to problems which sometimes can arise in the day-to-day administration of the Legislative Assembly (Members' Staff) Act, commonly known as the LA(MS) Act, given that three separate agencies have a role to play. Madam Speaker, the committee agrees with the proposition put by the representative of the Chief Minister's Department, that they coordinate a review of this so-called tripartite administration with a view to removing any difficulties. Chapter 5 of our report refers to employee allowances, and the Auditor-General's comments in relation to the incorrect claiming of allowances in some sections of the Government Service. The committee supports the government-wide review being coordinated by the Chief Minister's Department, as was outlined to the committee. We do, however, note that a timeframe has not been determined within which to conduct and complete that review. We strongly urge that a timeframe be determined, and that, at the completion of the review, the Assembly be advised of the outcome.
The final major comment is contained in chapter 6, relating to fraud control. The Auditor-General comments critically on the need to have fraud controls in place. The committee, whilst concerned at the length of time that has elapsed since the issue of fraud control plans and risk assessments was first raised by the Auditor-General, notes the officials' comments regarding the progress that has occurred, and we expect that future comment by the Auditor-General will and must be more positive. Madam Speaker, a number of more minor issues and comments are contained in the final chapter of our report.
Despite some of the difficulties faced in the consideration of the Auditor-General's report No. 6 of 1992, I have enjoyed the role of acting presiding member. I appreciate the manner in which my colleagues on the committee - Mrs Carnell, Mr Moore and Mrs Grassby - approached this inquiry, and their assistance in reaching a unanimous report. Thanks also go to the officials who spent some time in submission preparation and in appearing before the committee. I would also like to record my thanks and the thanks of the committee to the committee secretary, Ms Karin Malmberg. Given the requirement for a meeting and report schedule additional to our usual PAC commitments, the assistance of Ms Malmberg is very much appreciated.
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