The United Bermuda Party has called for a complete review of procedures for Government employees when they handle money after three recent cases of alleged fraud.

Opposition leader Dr. Grant Gibbons said it was essential there were proper controls to ensure Government funds do not go missing. He said the Progressive Labour Party's failure to resolve alleged corruption at Bermuda Housing Corporation may have made some public servants feel it was “open season” to steal tax-payers' money.

Dr. Gibbons called on Finance Minister Paula Cox to urgently review procedures.

“We are calling for a complete review of internal controls of cash in cash-handling departments,” said Dr. Gibbons yesterday.

“We've had three alleged serious breaches in the past year - two in the Ministry of Finance and one in Immigration - where it is alleged there were serious breaches of control in terms of management of cash and cheques. “There needs to be regular reconciliation of the bank accounts and I understand this has not been allegedly happening.

“With the transfer and approval of cash there needs to be the four eyes principle - at least two people signing off on the transfer of money.

“Because of the lack of progress in the scandals at Bermuda Housing Corporation and the corruption there, some individuals may feel it is open season on tax-payers' money.

“They may feel there is a sense of permissiveness because of the lack of a strong message in terms of either prosecution, or from the Government.”

An Accountant General Department clerk has pleaded guilty to stealing $159,493 and will be sentenced soon while another department employee has been charged in the disappearance of $1.9 million. Both men are on remand at Westgate Correctional Facility.

An Immigration officer is currently on suspension following allegations that money had gone missing.