Auditor General Slams THA for Lack of Document Submissions on Overseas Travel

Scarborough, Tobago – June 18, 2025 – Chief Secretary Farley Augustine has acknowledged that the Tobago House of Assembly (THA) did possess the necessary documents to account for monies spent on overseas travel. However, he stated those records were never submitted to the Auditor General due to what he described as a “simple administrative failure.”

The Auditor General’s 2024 report raised concerns over $6.8 million in overseas travel expenses that could not be verified. The report noted that while payments were made through the Automated Clearing House (ACH), there were no accompanying documents to confirm who travelled, their destinations, or the associated costs. According to Augustine, the documentation exists within the THA’s system but was not forwarded in time for audit review. He said efforts are now underway to ensure proper administrative processes are followed moving forward. Aaliyah Balgobin has the details on these THA audit queries and efforts to improve financial accountability in Tobago.