Work in Progress

The COVID-19 pandemic had a major economic impact on B.C., leading to job losses, business closures, and disruptions to supply chains. 

In September 2020, the province announced $1.5 billion in funding for a variety of programs to help promote a sustainable economic recovery. This included the Destination Development grant stream of the Community Economic Recovery Infrastructure Program, which supported the development and repair of tourism infrastructure and amenities. This grant stream is under the same program as the Community Economic Resilience stream we reported on in June 2022.

This audit will examine whether the Ministry of Tourism, Arts, Culture and Sport administered the Destination Development grant stream according to government financial policy and program guidelines. 

It will look at: 

• Assessment of funding applications 
• Contract stipulations and reporting requirements
• Distribution of funding 
• Ministry oversight 

For more information, watch the auditor general's announcement video.

Updated: October 2022

In March 2020, the Government of British Columbia declared a public health emergency due to the COVID-19 pandemic. The health system’s resources were engaged in managing two public health emergencies: COVID-19 and the toxic illicit drug supply. 

At the request of Vancouver Coastal Health, and based on consultations with the Ministry of Mental Health and Addictions, our office agreed to postpone our audit work related to substance use services at that time. 

We have now resumed planning this audit and expect to release a report in 2023.  

Updated: March 2022

Fraud poses a significant financial and reputational threat, which makes it essential to manage the risk.

Each ministry and Crown organization is responsible for its own fraud risk management framework. 

In early 2023, we’ll release two reports – one on Crown organizations and one on ministries.

Updated: December 2022