Vol. 411 No. 1
524 Mr. Quinn asked the Minister for Health if, in respect of each semi-State company responsible to his Department, he will outline (a) the type of internal audit system which has been established, (b) when it commenced to function, (c) the way in which it functions and (d) to whom it reports; whether he has satisfied himself that the system combines the necessary elements of scrutiny and managerial autonomy; and if he will make a statement on the matter.
The Voluntary Health Insurance Board are the only body under the aegis of my Department which would appear to come within the scope of the question.
The information requested is as follows:
(a) The internal audit department under the board is a professional full time unit, which has full, free access throughout the organisation, in accordance with the formal policy document and annual plan approved by the chief executive officer and the board.
(b) The internal audit function commenced in April 1982.
(c) Normal auditing techniques are used. Each assignment culminates in a report which is sent to the auditee and the chief executive officer. The report is reviewed at an implementation meeting within a few weeks and is further reviewed in approximately 12 months by all parties concerned.
The internal audit department works in full co-operation with the external auditors who receive copies of all plans and reports and who, on occasion, incorporate the work of the internal audit department into their reports.
(d) The function reports through the chief executive and the finance subcommittee of the board, to the board.
The position as I have outlined conforms with best practice and professional standards of internal audit.
