October 20, 2015, FREDERICTON (GNB) – Opportunities NB is well on its way to implementing all of the auditor general’s recommendations on providing financial assistance to companies doing business in New Brunswick, president and CEO Stephen Lund announced today.

Of the 19 recommendations made by the auditor general in March 2015, five are complete, 11 are in progress, two have been referred to other agencies and one is under review. Opportunities NB expects to have all recommendations directly affecting credit-granting procedures to be implemented by the end of its first fiscal year, March 31, 2016.

“We accept and appreciate the auditor general’s recommendations and are working hard to implement them, improving our processes and moving to best industry practices going forward,” said Lund. “We understand the seriousness of these recommendations and are fully committed to going above and beyond to meet and exceed the best practice standard.”

Since the auditor general report was released, Opportunities NB has created a steering committee to oversee and prioritize work involved with the implementation process. The committee consists of a representative from Deloitte, the chair of the audit committee of the board, the chief financial officer and professional staff.

Opportunities NB will work with the other agencies and the auditor general regarding the timely implementation of the remaining recommendations. Lund committed to provide regular updates on the progress of the implementation of the recommendations.

Opportunities NB is an action-oriented agency which seeks to attract and support high-growth opportunities to grow the New Brunswick economy and create jobs. It provides business support services for small and medium-sized, as well as large businesses across the province.

MEDIA CONTACT(S):

Carolyn McCormack, communications, Opportunities NB, 506-453-8168.