As the External Auditors were not present, the Committee received an update by the Director of Resources and Deputy Chief Executive regarding the External Audit – Progress Report and Sector Update.

The Director of Resources and Deputy Chief Executive confirmed:

·       The deadline for the audit sign off of the Financial Statements 2023/24 was 28 February 2025. It was planned that the External Auditors report would be presented to Governance Committee in November 2024.

·       The External Auditors were pleased with the work carried out to date on the audit at NDC, and the speed in which the finance team responded to their queries.

·       Some audit work remained outstanding in relation to the valuation of assets which was due to be completed soon.

·       The majority of the audit sampling had been completed.

·       A good working relationship was in place between the Authority and the auditors.

·       This was Bishop Fleming’s first year on Local Government audit.

·       Some staff from the previously appointed auditors (Grant Thornton) had moved over to employment with Bishop Fleming.

RESOLVED that the External Audit – Progress Report and Sector Update be noted.