Canada’s Auditor General Criticizes CBSA Over Mismanagement of ArriveCan App, Resulting in Excessive Costs

Canada’s Auditor General, Karen Hogan, has issued a scathing report on the handling of the ArriveCan application, highlighting a “glaring disregard” for basic management practices by those involved in its contracting, development, and implementation. The report reveals that Canadians ultimately “paid too much” for the application, with its cost estimated at $59.5 million, surpassing previous estimates of $54 million.

The audit identifies failures by the Canada Border Services Agency (CBSA), the Public Health Agency of Canada (PHAC), and Public Services and Procurement Canada (PSPC) in managing the project. Key findings include poor financial record-keeping by CBSA, inadequate documentation of testing for app updates, and a lack of transparency in contracting decisions.

Hogan expressed deep concern over the absence of essential documentation to support ArriveCan spending and decisions, emphasizing the importance of transparency and accountability in the use of public funds. She issued eight recommendations for reform, urging federal departments and agencies to improve fiscal management and document interactions with contractors.

The audit’s revelations align with previous concerns raised by parliamentarians and the public regarding irregular contracting practices and excessive costs associated with the app. It also echoes findings by Canada’s procurement ombudsman, Alexander Jeglic, who identified irregularities in subcontracting and contracting decisions related to ArriveCan.

The report underscores the need for improved oversight and accountability in government projects, particularly those with significant financial implications. It raises questions about the value achieved for taxpayer dollars spent on ArriveCan and calls for greater transparency in future contracting processes.

As investigations into ArriveCan continue, including ongoing probes by parliamentary committees and law enforcement agencies, Hogan’s report serves as a critical assessment of the government’s handling of the app and the need for reforms to prevent similar issues in the future.