HALIFAX – Nova Scotia's auditor general, Kim Adair, has announced significant progress by the provincial government in implementing recommendations from various performance audit reports conducted between 2020 and 2022. Speaking to reporters, Adair revealed that the government has successfully acted upon 82 out of a total of 103 recommendations during this period.
One of the most noteworthy achievements highlighted by Adair is the completion of all action items stemming from the 2021 audit. This audit marked a significant milestone, as it was the first report to see all of its recommendations fully executed by the time Adair’s office released its follow-up. This progress indicates a commitment by the provincial government to improve its operational efficiencies and accountability based on audit findings.
However, not all findings from the audits present a picture of success. Adair pointed out a troubling aspect of the government's performance concerning a 2019 audit, which focused on the management of bridge projects in central and western Nova Scotia. Out of seven recommendations made in that audit, only two have been completed. She noted that the Public Works Department has fallen short in two critical areas: it has not conducted necessary bridge inspections, nor has it established consistent criteria to prioritize bridge repair and replacement work. This lack of action raises concerns about public safety and infrastructure reliability within the province.
Additionally, the government has not addressed issues related to contaminated sites in Nova Scotia, which were highlighted in a 2020 audit recommendation. The failure to create a comprehensive inventory of these sites denotes a significant gap in environmental management and health safety measures. Moreover, the auditor general indicated that twelve out of twenty recommendations from a 2022 audit focusing on the oversight and management of public housing remain unfulfilled. This stalling in taking corrective actions undermines the government's ability to effectively manage public housing resources and ensure adequate living conditions for residents.
Overall, while the provincial government has made commendable strides in implementing many of the recommendations from the performance audits, serious gaps still exist that need immediate attention. The auditor general's report serves as both an acknowledgment of progress and a call to action for the government to address the unfinished business related to infrastructure and environmental responsibilities, as well as public housing management.
This report emphasizes the need for continued vigilance and responsiveness from government agencies to uphold their commitments and to ensure public trust in accountability measures.
