NNSL (May 21/99) - As it undergoes an annual audit and management shake-up, the Native Women's Association of the NWT is also developing a plan to "provide the proper financial controls so that it can return to a financially secure operation."

Wednesday's announcement came on the heels of the news that the association had terminated the employment of executive director Bren Kolson last Thursday, "through a motion passed unanimously by the board."

The board also said the association is operating at a deficit, and Acting President Betty Hardisty referred to unauthorized spending by the former director -- including a $40,000 donation to a Catholic school and failure to return a rental car.

The association said it would develop the new business plan with the help of the external auditor, who is currently carrying out the financial review.