19/11/2013
Councils 'Worst' For Paying Invoices - Report
Local councils in Northern Ireland are among the worst for the prompt payment of invoices, according to a new report by the Northern Ireland Audit Office.
The report, 'The Exercise by Local Government Auditors of their Functions', found that, in comparison with other public bodies such as central government, health and social care trusts and education and library boards, local councils perform worst on average when it comes to the payment of invoices.
The Chief Local Government Auditor Louise Mason said: "Whilst prompt payment performance has improved significantly, performance still falls well behind other sectors."
Throughout the year to 31 March 2013, councils paid 81% of invoices within 30 days but only 37% within 10 days.
"Better performance in this area has the potential to significantly improve cash flow for local firms providing services to councils," the report said.
The report also said the refurbishment of a Leisure Centre in Magherafelt cost over twice the original estimate.
The final cost of the project was approximately £9.2m, an increase of around 125% from the original contract price of £4.1m.
(IT/CD)
The report, 'The Exercise by Local Government Auditors of their Functions', found that, in comparison with other public bodies such as central government, health and social care trusts and education and library boards, local councils perform worst on average when it comes to the payment of invoices.
The Chief Local Government Auditor Louise Mason said: "Whilst prompt payment performance has improved significantly, performance still falls well behind other sectors."
Throughout the year to 31 March 2013, councils paid 81% of invoices within 30 days but only 37% within 10 days.
"Better performance in this area has the potential to significantly improve cash flow for local firms providing services to councils," the report said.
The report also said the refurbishment of a Leisure Centre in Magherafelt cost over twice the original estimate.
The final cost of the project was approximately £9.2m, an increase of around 125% from the original contract price of £4.1m.
(IT/CD)
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