Auditor-General airs concerns on State quarters

THE Office of the Auditor-General (OAG) has raised concerns on the management of government quarters occupied by civil servants in the Central Division.

In his general administrative sector report tabled in Parliament

recently, Auditor-General Ajay Nand stated the Commissioner Central’s Office administered the government quarters in the Central Division that had 276 quarters.

“The site visit conducted in the Central Division revealed a poor condition of quarters and serious structural defects requiring urgent maintenance and upgrading works,” said the OAG.

“No tenancy agreements were signed with the occupants of the quarters.

“No bond deposit was taken from the occupants to cover the damages and outstanding bills.”

The OAG recommended the welfare of civil servants occupying the quarters be given adequate attention and priority and proper level of coordination to be undertaken between the Ministry and CIU (Construction Implementation Unit) on seeking adequate funding to refurbish the quarters.

“Tenancy agreements are signed with all the quarters occupants and bond deposits are deducted from occupants to cover damages and outstanding bills.”

The Ministry of Rural and Maritime Development stated $100,000 was allocated for each division for maintenance works.

“The upgrade/renovation works for the quarters is expected to be completed by 2020/2021 FY end.”