US Department of Energy Office of Inspector General semiannual report to Congress, April 1--September 30, 1996

The report summarizes significant audit, inspection, and investigative accomplishments for the reporting period which facilitated DOE management efforts to improve management controls and ensure efficient and effective operation of its programs. During this period, the Office of IG issued 52 audit and 7 inspection reports. For reports issued during the period, the Office made audit recommendations that, when implemented by management, could result in $554 million being put to better use. Management committed to taking corrective actions which is estimated to result in a more efficient use of funds totaling $22.4 million. IG actions in identifying attainable economies and efficiencies in Departmental operations have recently provided a positive dollar impact of about $4 million per audit employee per year. Also, the Office of Inspections committed major resources reviewing the Secretary of Energy`s foreign travel. IG investigations led to 20 criminal convictions, as well as criminal and civil prosecutions which resulted in fines and recoveries of $29, 365,094. The Office also provided 27 investigative referrals to management for recommended positive action