The latest Pacific Economic Survey researched and published by AusAid has the Cook Islands leading Pacific island nations in controlling corruption. The Cook Islands is also ahead of other island states with government effectiveness.
In a government statement, Finance Minister Sir Terepai Maoate credited much of this achievement to the performance of the Cook Islands Audit Office, which operates under international standards that set the methodology for all audits.
“So we are employing international best practices and reporting standards,” explained Sir Terepai.
Paul Allsworth, who took over the Audit Office eight years ago, added that having qualified and competent staff contributes to the Cook Islands office being recognised by its Pacific counterparts as amongst the best in the region.
He revealed that all staff must have nothing less than an accounting degree, “so they have the technical knowledge to apply their skills to their audits”.
Audit staff have received training through NZAID and ADB in financial audits, performance audits and fraud (anti-corruption).
In 2005 the Cook Islands Audit Office gained Approved Training Organisation status, which is issued by the NZ Institute of Chartered Accountants.
The Special Reviews division within the audit office has the mandate to look into corruption, misuse, fraud and abuse of government resources.
Headed by Cook Islander Allan Parker, the division’s investigations have led to the prosecution of MPs and senior government officials. Currently in progress is a high profile case involving the former speaker of Parliament and former DPM which is to come before the high court.
“We carry out investigations without fear or favour. Investigations have have been conducted into the activities previous prime ministers, an attorney general, and Cabinet members and other senior public officials, no public official is exempt from scrutiny by the Audit Office,” stated Allsworth.
Quarterly and annual reports which improve accountability and transparency are provided to Parliament and stakeholders. Under the PERCA Act, the division itself comes under the scrutiny of an Audit Commissioner, who conducts thorough reviews.
The independent reviews ensure that the work of the Audit Office complies with international standards. Current Commissioner is Marcus Henry, a partner of Ernest & Young, one of four biggest accounting companies in the world.
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