McLaughlin: Executive must learn lessons from NIAO investigation

SDLP Economy Spokesperson Sinead McLaughlin has welcomed the fact that the Auditor General will conduct an investigation into how COVID-19 support grants were paid to hundreds of ineligible businesses.

The Foyle MLA has said it is vital that lessons are learnt from this scheme, to ensure public money is spent properly.

Ms McLaughlin said: “Last week, the SDLP proposed at the Executive that the Auditor General be invited proactively to audit any past and future COVID-19 support schemes.

“While it is deeply disappointing that other parties failed to support this proposal, it is welcome that the Auditor General has confirmed he will investigate how more than £4m was paid in error to hundreds of businesses, and political parties, through an emergency Covid-19 support grant.

“Thousands of workers and businesses across Northern Ireland have yet to receive a penny in financial assistance and they were rightly outraged when it emerged that ineligible businesses received thousands of pounds in public money.

“While it is important these schemes are delivered at pace, it is vital that there are checks in place to ensure the money is getting to those in need, instead of those who are ineligible.

“People need to have confidence that the Executive is spending public money correctly and has robust processes in place to prevent misuse.

“The Auditor General must be given the space to thoroughly investigate and the Executive must fully implement his recommendations. Citizens deserve nothing less than full openness and transparency.”

Tags: