Issue - meetings

That the report be accepted.

The Internal Audit, Performance & Risk Manager presented the regular update on progress against the Plan, final reports issued, action tracking, performance indicators and current investigations.  Since the last report, no Red (limited assurance) reports had been issued and 35 of the 58 overdue actions were high or medium priority.

As requested by the Chair, the officer provided an update on progress with overdue high priority actions including those older than six months from the original due date.  Following the report on Maes Gwern contractual arrangements at the previous meeting, a detailed positive update was given on the current position including capital receipts received to date.  On ‘O’ Licenses, due dates had been extended due to the impact of staffing issues in Streetscene & Transportation and would be progressed following the current recruitment exercise.  In agreement with the Chief Officer, the Internal Audit team would be identifying ways of adding value to that service through a lean review in next year’s Audit Plan.

It was agreed that an update on progress with actions from the Homelessness and Temporary Accommodation review would be shared once available, noting the current pressures within that service.

In response to questions from Councillor Andrew Parkhurst, the officer explained that the deferment of the audit on Section 106 Agreements was due to a management review and would be scheduled in the 2023/24 Audit Plan.  She detailed the process for encouraging and supporting key officers to update the system on overdue actions and provided clarification on the reasons behind some reviews involving extended revised due dates.  On the use of consultants, she shared background on historic issues prior to the introduction of strengthened processes.

The recommendation was moved and seconded by Rev Brian Harvey and Councillor Allan Marshall.

RESOLVED:

That the report be accepted.