Audit report notes lack of planning for elderly needs

THERE was a lack of planning by the Ministry of Infrastructure and Transport “to take into account the needs of the elderly” before commencement of construction at the Golden Age Home in Lautoka, the Office of the Auditor-General stated in the 2019 Audit Report on Infrastructure Sector tabled in Parliament recently.

The report stated an audit review of the progress reports noted the Golden Age Home relining project was complete.

“However, upon site visit on 14/02/20, we noted works were still pending.

“This clearly indicates that the project officer has misled the ministry by indicating that the project was completed.

“The ministry indicated that the bathroom piping works were left exposed due to additional demand from the elderly to install a hot water system during the implementation of project works.

“The findings indicate lack of planning by the ministry to take into account the needs of the elderly prior to commencement of the construction works. In addition, the findings indicate misleading reports submitted by the divisions.”

The OAG recommended responsible staff be reminded of their duties and appropriate disciplinary actions be taken against those responsible for providing misleading progress reports.

The ministry stated the Golden Age Home project had been completed as per the scope of work.

“However, due to the additional demand of installing a hot water system for the elderly during the project, the bathroom piping works were left exposed.

“Those works will be completed in the second phase to accommodate the installation of a hot water system.”