Millions missing due to errors and fraud

The Northern Ireland Audit Office has expressed concern over high levels of fraud and losses reported following financial audits of government bodies.

Auditor General John Dowdall said: "I remain concerned with the overall levels of fraud and error. I recognise the considerable efforts and resources committed by the Department to address fraud and error but it is my view that these levels continue to be unacceptably high and can be reduced."

While the audit of the Northern Ireland Child Support Agency was qualified due to an unacceptable level of errors, the auditor expressed concern at the rising levels of debt in the Agency.

The level of collectable debt in the Agency increased from £14 million at 31 March 2005 to £26 million at 31 March 2006. In addition there is a further £32.3 million debt due at 31 March 2006 that was deemed largely uncollectable.

The annual report of the Agency did not include a debt reduction target for 2006-07.

The level of losses through fraud and error in Social Security benefits in 2005-06 is estimated at over £150 million (2004-05 £143 million). This is 4% of total benefit expenditure indicating a small increase from the 3.9% of total benefit expenditure reported in 2004-05.

(SP/KMcA)