The Governance & Assurance Committee of Redbridge Council was scheduled to consider a range of important reports and strategies at its meeting on Tuesday 30 January 2024. Key discussions were expected to focus on financial planning, risk management, and the council's approach to cyber security and information governance.

External Pension Fund Audit Planning

A significant portion of the meeting was dedicated to the planning for the external audit of the pension fund for the year ending 31 March 2023. This audit is a crucial process to ensure the financial health and proper management of the pension fund, which is a vital resource for the council's employees and pensioners.

Treasury Management Strategy

The committee was scheduled to review the Treasury Management Strategy for 2024/25. This strategy outlines how the council will manage its financial assets and liabilities, including borrowing and investment activities, to ensure financial stability and achieve value for money. The strategy is a key document in the council's financial planning and is subject to regulatory oversight.

Strategic Risk Register and Risk Management

The 2023/24 Strategic Risk Register for Quarter 3 was on the agenda, providing an update on the council's identification and management of key risks. Alongside this, the committee was set to consider the Risk Management Strategy and Policy for 2024/25. These documents are fundamental to the council's proactive approach to identifying, assessing, and mitigating potential threats to its operations and objectives.

Anti-Fraud, Corruption, and Cyber Security

Discussions were planned regarding the council's commitment to combating fraud and corruption, with the Anti-Fraud and Corruption Strategy and Supporting Policies scheduled for review. Furthermore, the committee was to examine the Cyber Security Strategy for 2024/25, reflecting the increasing importance of protecting the council's digital infrastructure and sensitive data. An update on Internal Audit and Counter Fraud activities for Quarter 3 of 2023/24 was also to be presented.

Information Governance and Investigatory Powers

The meeting's agenda also included the Information Governance Strategy for 2024/25, which details how the council will manage and protect information. Additionally, the committee was scheduled to review the Regulation of Investigatory Powers Act 2000 Policy, which governs the lawful use of investigatory powers by public bodies.

Work Programme and Other Business

The committee was also due to consider its Work Programme, outlining future topics for discussion, and address any other urgent items that the Chair, Councillor Martin Sachs, deemed necessary to bring forward. The meeting also included standard procedural items such as apologies for absence, declarations of interest, and the opportunity for public participation.