PAC to name witnesses who refuse to attend hearings

 

The Public Accounts Committee (PAC) will name witnesses who refuse to attend its hearings, especially former top civil servants.

In a statement today, PAC chairperson Mas Ermieyati Samsudin it was necessary to ensure the public was informed of issues it was investigating and the non-compliance of former government officials.

She explained that former government officials are often needed for PAC hearings because only they can explain issues that cropped up during the material time.

"The refusal of former controlling officer or chief secretaries to attend PAC proceedings is an offence under Section 9(a) of the Houses of Parliament (Privileges and Powers) Act 1952.

"It also gives the impression that they have something to hide," said Mas Ermieyati (above).

Best platform

The PAC is a powerful bipartisan body that investigates government finances. Its main tool is closed-door hearings. However, transcripts of the hearings are available once the PAC concludes its investigation report.

Last year, the PAC investigation on the littoral combat ship (LCS) saga led to several executive decisions to ensure greater transparency and accountability on the controversial project.

Mas Ermieyati urged the government to create a mechanism that will ensure that former ministerial controlling officers or chief secretaries will attend PAC hearings.

"Attending PAC proceedings is the best platform for former controlling officers or chief secretaries to explain issues raised by the National Audit Department," she said. - Mkini