The ultimate Chamber of Control (NIK) reveals further irregularities related to the Patriotic Fund. After 2 years of control, the NIK study reveals how more than 100 million zlotys went to right-wing entities and funds were issued in a way that raised serious doubts. What circumstantial irregularities have the controllers detected? These are the most crucial findings from the latest report.
1. Patriotic Fund: Where Did the Millions Go?
From 2021 to 1923, the Patriotic Fund, managed by the Patriotic thought Institute (formerly the National thought Heritage Institute), awarded PLN 102 million in the form of a grant. NIK analysed how these measures were spent and discovered serious irregularities:
- Irregularities in Real property Purchases: The Independent Service Foundation purchased 2 studios with money from the Fund. 1 was to be utilized as a recording studio and the another as a conference and training centre. However, it turned out that the area of the second studio was besides tiny for the planned functions, which led to the rent of additional space, besides financed by the Fund.
- Inappropriate Spending of Measures: The Action-Life Foundation utilized funds from the Patriotic Fund to acquisition the property that the erstwhile owners subsequently inhabited. Despite commitments to adapt properties for people with disabilities, these requirements have not been met.
2. Irregularities in the scope of Equipment and Services
The audit besides showed irregularities concerning the acquisition of equipment:
- National defender Association: It received PLN 1.7 million to acquisition the property that was planned to be utilized as a training centre. However, the property was utilized as a place of accommodation for refugees, and purchased radio stations and drones were utilized without appropriate approval and permission.
- Youth Initiative Foundation: The book publication subsidy “Precursors of Freedom” contained errors and irregularities, specified as paying wages for works that were not entirely original.
3. Transparency and Supervisory Problems
NIK besides emphasises the deficiency of supervision and transparency:
- No Documentation: In many cases there was no documentation showing that the marketplace was being examined before buying or spending.
- Insufficient Oversight: The Minister of Culture and National Heritage has not ordered control over the allocation, spending and clearing of funds from the Patriotic Fund.
4. What's next?
NIK filed a announcement with the D.A., which will now gotta solve the case. The study highlights serious weaknesses and possible abuses in the management of the Patriotic Fund, which could lead to further legal action.
These irregularities rise serious questions about the way public funds are managed and the supervision of expenditure. It will surely proceed and may affect future decisions on funds and organisations receiving public support.
Read more:
The Patriotic Fund scandal: NIK Discovers Irregularities for the Gold Millions
