Agenda item

Agenda item

Outstanding Audit Recommendations

The report of the City Treasurer and the Head of Audit and Risk Management is enclosed.

Minutes:

The Committee considered the quarterly report of the City Treasurer and the Head of Internal Audit and Risk Management which provided information on the current implementation position and arrangements for monitoring and reporting internal and external audit recommendations. The report contained only Internal Audit recommendations.

 

The Chief Operating Officer (Neighbourhoods) and the Strategic Lead Officer (Events Parks and Leisure) attended the meeting to introduce the report and an update on actions taken on the development of an Events Strategy and Events Management.

 

The Chair invited questions from the Committee.

 

Officers were requested to provide more information on resources for events and the appointment of staff.

 

It was reported that the post of ‘Head of Events’ had not been filled after advertising the post on two occasions. Following a review of the position it was decided that the role would be combined to include other responsibilities and was advertised again. It was anticipated that suitable candidates would apply and an appointment could be made from the process. The Committee was informed that unanticipated events such as large scale parades and demonstrations within the city had contributed to pressure placed on current resources.

 

The Chair referred to the holding of events within Albert Square and asked officers if this would be included within the Strategy as part of the refurbishment of the Town Hall.

 

The Committee was assured that the refurbishment of the Town Hall and Albert Square would be included within the Strategy and this will take into account the use of the area as a future venue in view of changes taking place to other outdoor venues within the city. The Albert Square area would be enhanced with an increased pedestrian area and reduced traffic flow and the inclusion of barrier protection in line with the advice received on counter terrorism.

 

A member referred to the use of new venues identified in the strategy and sought assurance that, where necessary, local residents and resident’s groups would be fully informed and consulted on events proposed.

 

It was reported that the Events Strategy will include engagement with elected members and a check will be made with the Executive Members concerned on whether residents will be included in this. The Strategy will include provision for the notification of events at venues within residential areas, such as the Castlefield Bowl, and this will continue to take place well in advance of a planned event.

 

A member referred to the list of overdue recommendations and asked officers which of the recommendations is causing most concern.

 

The meeting was informed that the audit work relating to Liquid Logic Data Migration and Testing Phase 1, for the reason that the system dealt with issues relating to children’s and adults social care. All outstanding audits would be monitored and an update would be provided on this within the next report to the Committee.

 

The Committee agreed that it was satisfied with the assurance provided within the report it had considered.

 

Decisions

 

1.         To note the report submitted and the comments received.

 

2.         To note that the next report on Outstanding Recommendations will include an update on the position of overdue recommendations.

Supporting documents: