The Cyprus Audit Office has unveiled several deficiencies in the operations of the Meteorology Department (CMD), according to a Special Audit Report released yesterday. The report highlights significant compliance issues with legal provisions, internal regulations, and procedures, particularly concerning staff management and revenue collection.

Staff Attendance and Training Records

The audit revealed a lack of proper attendance and departure monitoring for employees. Specifically, there was no evidence to confirm whether staff at the Athalassa Radiosonde Station fulfilled their required working hours during training periods. In response, the CMD stated it has now implemented an electronic attendance tracking system and reviewed all staff leave records, ensuring no errors remain.

Delayed Revenue Collection

Another issue identified was the CMD's failure to effectively document and recover outstanding revenue. The Audit Office recommends that the CMD maintain comprehensive records of pending payments as of December 31 each year and ensure prompt collection to avoid prolonged delays. CMD reported it has reconciled its revenue records for the past eight years.

Meteorological Data Quality Checks

The quality review of meteorological data recorded from 2002 to 2020 faced significant delays. The CMD has reported that 61%-75% of the data has now been reviewed, with full quality checks expected by summer 2025.

Building Use Certification

The Audit Office noted that the CMD failed to provide a valid Building Use Certificate for its rented headquarters. The CMD has contacted the building owner to secure the necessary documentation. Should the certificate not be provided, the department is advised to terminate the lease, per the contract terms.

External Employment Allegations

The report also addressed allegations that CMD staff engaged in activities at the Cyprus Institute without authorization from the Ministry of Labor and Social Insurance. The CMD clarified that the involvement was voluntary and did not constitute formal employment. It plans to inform the ministry as per the Audit Office’s recommendation.

Selection Criteria for EU Agency Assignment

The process for selecting a senior officer for a secondment to the European Union Aviation Safety Agency (EASA) lacked transparency. The CMD and the Ministry of Agriculture, Rural Development, and Environment failed to document the selection process or criteria used to assess other potential candidates.

The Audit Office advises the CMD to take all necessary measures to comply with applicable laws, regulations, and circulars. It emphasized the importance of implementing robust systems to prevent similar issues in the future.