Veterans Affairs’ employees received $24 million in bonuses in 2007 and 2008 despite the fact that their office was facing a huge budget deficit.

Inspector General of the Veterans Affairs Department is of the view that high-ranking officials abused their authority and engaged in prohibited personal practices to improperly administer awards while working information technology office department.

The report issued by VA's Office said, “The frequent and large dollar amount awards given to employees were unusual and often absurd.”

For instance, an employee got performance award worth $4,500 within the first three months of her service.

Around 4,700 awards plus bonuses were given in 2007, while the figure jumped to 5,000 in 2008.

Annual average bonus per employee stood at $2,500 for 2007 and 2008.

Ms. Duncan, recently retired official, was also blamed of abusing her position. Ms. Duncan herself got $60,000 in awards.

Press secretary for the department, Katie Roberts, assured that curative actions would be taken against the guidelines’ violators.