Allowance for single mothers was given even after they remarried: Audit Report

The Audit Report of the Ministry of Health has revealed that the financial help for single mothers, introduced by the government of former President Mohamed Nasheed, was given to several women even after they remarried.

The report, signed by Auditor General Niyaz Ibrahim and released today, states that between 2010 and 30 June 2012, MVR 894,000 was given to 88 women in Male’ after they remarried, and MVR 299,000 was given to 59 women from 13 random islands after they remarried.

The report recommended that a policy be created regarding these funds, which should only be given to single mothers.

The Auditor General also recommended setting up procedures and making administrative arrangements to ensure that this policy is strictly followed.

The report also suggests creating a system whereby legal action can be taken against women who, by hiding information from NSPA, accept this money after getting married; and to make efforts to reclaim the money from the women who have taken it after getting married.