By Canadian Press

Auditor general probes COVID-19 vaccine procurement, pandemic benefits

Dec 6, 2022 | 2:04 AM

OTTAWA — Canada’s auditor general is expected to release two highly anticipated reports on the government’s handling of the COVID-19 crisis in 2021, including access to vaccines and pandemic benefits. 

Karen Hogan’s first report will detail how well the government did getting ahold of COVID-19 vaccine doses and tracking how many people got them.

The Liberal government made headlines in 2021 over concerns the rollout of provincial vaccine campaigns may be jeopardized by delayed shipments of COVID-19 vaccines.

The auditor has also examined the distribution of benefit payments to people who lost income because of public health restrictions.

The report is expected to show whether the Canada Revenue Agency and Employment and Social Development Canada made sure payments were accurate and paid to eligible applicants, as well as whether efforts were made to recuperate overpayments.

WHAT'S ON

Here is what's on this weekend in Medicine Hat and area: Dec. 13-15

23h ago

IN THE COMMUNITY

Medicine Hat's Mustard Seed adding new shelter spaces at Alberta government's request

Dec 12, 2024

HOLIDAYS

Medicine Hat Kiwanis hosting Christmas dinner, applications due Friday

Dec 12, 2024

It will also examine the efficiency and effectiveness of the COVID-19 benefit program, and whether the agencies achieved its goals in a cost-effective way.

The reports are expected to be tabled in the House of Commons at 10 a.m. EST.

This report by The Canadian Press was first published Dec. 6, 2022.

The Canadian Press