An innovative Anti Fraud System
From EPSA
Short description of the project
The protection of the Communities' financial interests (PIF) at national level involves the activity of numerous institutions, both authorities of public administration and judicial bodies. That is why a coordinated effort is necessary to effectively prevent and combat illicit practices which affect the Communities' financial interests. The originality of the project consists in the founding of an integrated coordination system: operational, intelligence activities and professional training coordination. The system is carried into effect by the Fight Against Fraud Department - DLAF, independent structure created at government level, with both coordination and operational responsibilities and has been instituted on the basis of the National Anti-Fraud Strategy.
Current status and future steps for the project
The anti-fraud system created by DLAF has become operational and has led to its first results: a more intense control activity; a consolidated national legislative framework; a National Anti-Fraud Strategy implemented and updated. DLAF director General Mr. Franz-Hermann Bruener stressed that "the model implemented by Romania for the protection of the European funds by creating the Fight Against Fraud Department is an example for all Member States and candidate countries". The new objectives concern the adjustment of the system to the challenge represented by the financial assistance Romania is going to receive in its new position of Member State. It means more funds to be controlled, new institutions, new structures within these institutions. This means also new legislation.
Lessons learned
“Working together" is the main ingredient of the system. Thus, the best results are derived from good cooperation and by exchanging information. Good examples must always be followed or at least adapted to the specific of the organisation.
