Tuesday, 2 February 2016
PM Briefed on Findings of Audit Chamber-Conducted Surveys in Kotayk, Aragatsotn Marz LSS Agencies
Prime Minister Hovik Abrahamyan chaired today a consultative meeting, at which Audit Chamber Chairman Ishkhan Zakaryan introduced the findings of a study conducted in the local social service (LSS) agencies of Kotayk and Aragatsotn Marzes of Armenia.
Mr Zakaryan first advised that there are four LSS offices servicing some 9 912 beneficiaries in Kotayk, Abovyan, Hrazdan, Charentsavan and Eghvard towns of Kotayk Marz. Audit Chamber’s inspections were carried out in the period from April 1, 2014 through January 1, 2015 covering 6 753 out of a total of 9 912 beneficiaries. The inspection found out 230 irregularities of a total value of AMD 27,200 thousand.
Noting that there are four LSS offices servicing 7 769 beneficiary families in Ashtarak, Aparan, Talin and Tsakhkahovit towns of Aragatsotn Marz, Ishkhan Zakaryan reported 341 irregularities revealed with 5 492 beneficiaries in the period from January 1, 2014 to July 1, 2015.
Mr Zakaryan said to have received relevant follow-up notices from the governors concerned, which claimed that most of the aforementioned irregularities had been addressed: the affected amounts were returned to the Treasury and the beneficiary lists were updated. Coming down to individual irregularities, the speakers came up with recommendations and suggestions in order to rule them out in the future.
“I think we need to make serious decisions. Also, I welcome the Audit Chamber’s decision to carry out inspections in the welfare departments of local municipalities,” Hovik Abrahamyan said.
The Premier told the Governors to submit proposals on sanctions against the offenders, as well as to take steps toward ensuring maximum transparency in LSSA activities and rule out irregularities in the future.
