“I have no challenge with audits” 

That comment from Water Minister, Matthew Samuda as a recent auditor general report on the National Water Commission (NWC) continues to trigger discussion and criticism from the Opposition People’s National Party and members of the public.  

The report, tabled in Parliament on Tuesday identified several areas requiring urgent attention including weaknesses in capital project prioritisation, procurement timelines, contractor management, reporting systems, liquidity pressures and the longstanding backlog in audited financial statements.

Speaking on the matter at a groundbreaking ceremony in St. Elizabeth yesterday, Mr. Samuda noted that his ministry understands that audits are an essential management tool. 

He stressed that several of the recommendations outlined in the audit had been implemented even before the report was published.  

Noting his ministry’s commitment to water security, Mr. Samuda assured that all the recommendations will be actioned.