Accounting implications faced by the Maltese public service when leasing motor vehicles

Abstract

Leasing is a transaction by which an entity (lessee) acquires the right to use an asset which is owned by another entity (lessor), against payment. Although the origin of leasing goes back several thousands of years, we have witnessed a dramatic increase in its usage over the past century. This study enters into more detail leasing of a particular kind of fixed asset in the public service: motor vehicles. Using the qualitative approach, a number of public officers were interviewed about how the Maltese public service approaches and treats the leasing option. The lease or buy decision process was put under the lens. Emphasis has also been made on relevant international (IPSAS13) and local policies (Government Circulars), the lease or buys decision, and eventual accounting treatment. Interviewees were also asked to identify points which should be treated as potential pitfalls with regards to implementing IPSAS 13. One of the points which were dealt with was the need for Maltese Public Service to shift from its cash-based accounting system to accrual accounting. As things stand, IPSAS 13 cannot be implemented within a cash-based system. This change will require significant investment on new hardware, software development and an ongoing staff training programme. Furthermore, it is also being suggested to look into ways by which, two or more systems (e.g. the Fleet Management System and DAS/or the future Accrual Accounting System) could integrate their data - thus saving on data inputting time.