22.1 Overview
By law the Authority has to maintain an adequate and effective internal audit function.
Internal Audit is an assurance function that primarily provides an independent and objective opinion to the organisation on the control environment comprising risk management, control and governance by evaluating its effectiveness in achieving the organisation’s objectives. It objectively examines, evaluates and reports on the adequacy of the control environment as a contribution to the proper, economic, efficient and effective use of resources.
22.2 Responsibility/Accountability
22.2.1 Chief Executive (click here for all responsibilities for the Chief Executive)
Considering any legal proceedings and disciplinary action in consultation with the appropriate Business Unit Head.
22.2.2 Head of Law and Corporate Governance (click here for all responsibilities for the Monitoring Officer)
Maintaining an adequate and effective internal audit function, ensuring that internal auditors have the authority to carry out their duties.
Compiling and maintaining Strategic and Annual Audit Plans.
Consulting with Business Unit Heads on the audit strategy and cover required.
Investigating promptly any fraud or irregularity of which he becomes aware and reporting it to the Chief Executive where appropriate.
Reporting to Cabinet, the relevant Scrutiny & Review Panel and the Chief Executive on the main issues raised by Internal Audit during the year.
22.2.3 Business Unit Heads (click here for all responsibilities for Business Unit Heads)
Ensuring that prompt consideration and suitable responses are made regarding recommendations in audit reports.
Ensuring that any agreed action is carried out in a timely and efficient fashion.
Taking all necessary steps to prevent loss and securing records and documentation against removal or alteration.
22.3 Policy (click here for detailed procedures)
The Council’s Internal Audit function is independent with direct access to the Chief Executive, the Cabinet and the Scrutiny & Review Panels. All procedures in Part IV of this document related to Internal Audit will be followed at all times.
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