Issue - meetings

To submit –

·       The Statement of Accounts post-audit;

·       The Wales Audit Office’s report;

·       Letter of representation.

To accept and note the report on behalf of the Auditor General for Wales, to approve the 2022/23 accounts, and to authorise the Chair to sign the letter of representation on behalf of the Joint Committee.

The report was presented, noting that Audit Wales intends to issue an unqualified audit opinion on the accounts this year. Following this, GwE is required to prepare a letter of representation on what is noted in the report. The Chair of the Joint Committee and the Finance Officer are required to sign the letter of representation and present it to the auditors.

One correction noted in the auditors' report was highlighted. It was explained that an unusual and unprecedented situation had arisen when the draft accounts were presented back in July. It was noted that it was a technical and unprecedented situation and that there was no clear guidance on how to deal with such a situation. As a result, the finance officers contacted Audit Wales for guidance, but it took some time for the auditors to decide on the right course of action. It was therefore explained that the amendment arises from different advice received at a later date on how to deal with the matter, and that it has now been resolved.

Reference was made to paragraph six in the report, which notes that work has not been completed. It was confirmed that the work has now been completed and that there are no other matters arising. The fact that there were no other matters arising is a very good reflection of the arrangements in place to prepare the accounts, it was explained.

The teams in both Audit Wales and Cyngor Gwynedd Finance Department were thanked for their hard work and co-operation. The accounts are a source of pride it was added, and they provide assurance to members that priorities are in the right place and that money is used appropriately.

DECISION

To accept and note the report on behalf of the Auditor General for Wales, approve the 2022/23 accounts and authorise the Chair to sign the letter of representation on behalf of the Joint Committee.