This release was issued under a previous government.
“I made the commitment to Albertans that government accepts all the recommendations made by the Auditor General and that we would publicly report on our progress to implement them. This update is the first step to improve oversight and transparency, and another step forward in re-building the trust of Albertans.”
The auditor general made six recommendations related to oversight of the Office of the Premier expenses and use of the government aircraft. The province is also reviewing the auditor general’s advice as it further relates to use of government aircraft as well as the government’s travel, meal and hospitality expense policy, and its corresponding disclosure policy.
“We are making immediate changes to how government aircraft are used, while recognizing that a new Premier will provide further direction on the future of the aircraft. Today’s changes are a first step towards stronger black-letter policies that will deliver the type of oversight and accountability that Albertans expect on all forms of government travel.”
Under the Building Alberta Plan, our government is investing in families and communities, living within our means, and opening new markets for Alberta's resources to ensure we're able to fund the services Albertans told us matter most to them. We will continue to deliver the responsible change Albertans voted for.
Backgrounder
Status of Auditor General recommendations
Auditor General recommendations |
Status |
Timeline |
Recommendation 1 Oversight of the Premier’s Office expenses and the use of the government aircraft
|
Underway |
Treasury Board will discuss options for proceeding during its meeting the week of August 18-22 |
Recommendation 2 Conduct periodic air transportation services program evaluations |
Underway |
Government officials have been instructed to begin this process. |
Recommendation 3 and 4 Clarify aircraft use policies
|
Underway |
Communicated policy changes to caucus on August 19 |
Recommendation 5 Re-evaluate out-of-province use of government aircraft |
Stop on out-of-province travel continues |
Effective since March 4, 2014 |
Recommendation 6 Report the cost of using government aircraft |
Underway |
Government has received the costing model used by the Auditor General. |