Accountability

The Office of the Comptroller General (OCG) is a key instrument in the Government of Canada’s commitment to accountability and transparency to Canadians.

Canadians expect the Government of Canada to deliver meaningful results and good value for taxpayers. Earning and justifying this trust requires government departments and agencies to spend public money openly, honestly and effectively while balancing risk with opportunities for innovation.

The OCG helps to translate this commitment into action by strengthening financial management and internal audit practices throughout the public service. It also helps provide reliable information on government spending to Canadians and Parliamentarians.

The OCG provides up-to-date policies, procedures and tools that help improve the overall effectiveness of government program delivery and spending. Key activities include:

  • Enhancing financial disclosure and supporting readiness for audited departmental financial statements
  • Maintaining accurate and timely Public Accounts of Canada
  • Monitoring compliance with financial authorities (clarifying roles and responsibilities)
  • Enhancing the visibility and soundness of government operations through audit
  • Promoting a clear and useful Chart of Accounts for the Government of Canada
  • Providing sound advice on accounting treatment, financial information systems and accounting practices and procedures
  • Providing functional support to independent audit committees
  • Ensuring high-calibre internal audit capability

The OCG plays a key role in implementing the Federal Accountability Act.

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