Provisions
A provision is recognized when the Company has a present obligation (legal or constructive) as a result of past events, it is probable (more likely than not) that a transfer of economic benefits will be required to settle the obligation, and a reliable estimate can be made of the amount of the obligation.
The amount recognized as a provision is the best estimate of the consideration required to settle the present obligation at the end of the reporting period. When the impact is likely to be material (for long-term provisions), the amount recognized as a provision is estimated on a net present value basis (discount factor). The increase in provision due to the passage of time is recognized as an interest expense.
A present obligation arises from an obligating event and may take the form of either a legal obligation or a constructive obligation (a constructive obligation exists when the Company has an established pattern of past practice that indicates to other parties that it will accept certain responsibilities and as a result has created a valid expectation on the part of those other parties that it will discharge those responsibilities). An obligating event leaves the Company no realistic alternative to settling the obligation, independently of its future actions.