2018–19 Departmental Results Report—Operating context and key risks
Office of the Auditor General of Canada2018–19 Departmental Results Report
Operating context and key risks
The operating context of the Office of the Auditor General of Canada is most affected by developments in the auditing and accounting professions, and by changes in government operations.
Although we responded to a number of new auditing and accounting standards, we did not need to reallocate resources in the 2018–19 fiscal year.
There have been many changes in government operations, including significant increases in program spending, increasing complexity in the nature of government transactions, and new mandates being given to the Office. These ongoing and evolving changes in our operating context are putting a significant strain on the Office’s resources and ability to deliver quality products on a timely basis.
The following table provides further information about the Office’s key risks.
Key risks
Risks | Risk response strategy | Link to the Office’s core responsibilities | Link to the Office’s strategic priorities |
---|---|---|---|
Budget and funding pressures The Office is facing capacity pressures in a number of areas, including audit operations, audit services, and corporate services. This situation is affecting the Office’s ability to deliver essential services, deliver quality products in a timely manner, and meet compliance requirements. It is also affecting staff morale. |
Actions:
Risk appetite:
Measures:
|
Legislative auditing |
To be a financially well-managed organization accountable for the use of resources entrusted to it |
IT systems and security The Office’s current information technology (IT) security controls do not reduce security risk to a level acceptable to the Office. In addition, we are facing the potential failure of some of our IT systems. |
Actions:
Risk appetite:
Measures:
|
Legislative auditing |
To ensure effective, efficient, and accountable Office governance and management |
Enhancing value The Office wants to enhance and demonstrate its value to Parliament and Canadians, both in the selection and conduct of individual audits, and through the type of assurance and other products it offers. |
Actions:
Risk appetite:
Measures:
|
Legislative auditing |
To report what is working, areas for improvement, and recommendations in a manner that is understandable, timely, and fair and adds value To ensure selection and continuance of audit products likely to have significant impact and value |
Transitioning Office senior management Although the Office believes this situation is well managed, it acknowledges that the significant changes to its senior management need to be managed effectively to ensure the continued strong oversight and management of the Office. |
Actions:
Risk appetite:
|
Legislative auditing |
To develop and maintain a skilled, engaged, and bilingual workforce |