Three Nataisiri men left their homes at 2am yesterday to attend the Budget consultations at De Vos on the Park in Suva.

They walked five hours to catch a bus to Suva in their bid to highlight the urgent need for a road in their district.

Ilisavane Vualiki, who spoke on behalf of the three, poured his heart out as he addressed the Attorney-General and Minister Economy Aiyaz Sayed-Khaiyum. He said they had faith and confidence in Mr Sayed-Khaiyum. That’s why they made the long journey, he added.

Mr Sayed-Khaiyum thanked the three for raising their concerns and informing them of the community’s situation.

He then instructed ministry officials present to record the details. He told Mr Vualiki that he would look into the issue.

Mr Vualiki is from Sawanikula Village. Epeneri Belecawa comes from Nasava Village and Sekove Nasila from Matainasau Village.

Other issues they raised included a secondary school and a sports ground for a local school.

Roads and bridges, agriculture and tax on musicians, were among the top issues raised at the consultation.

Mr Sayed-Khaiyum said infrastructure got the biggest vote in the Budget to build roads, bridges and jetties, particularly in the outer islands.

One person suggested that agriculture be made part of the school curriculum to help Fijians plant their own crops and be self sufficient. Mr Sayed-Khaiyum agreed.

He told the Fiji Women’s Rights Movement (FWRM) to be more specific with their submission.

Mamta Chand of the FWRM had earlier said that the Budget should be accountable and transparent seen through a gender lens by including women of diversities.

Edited by Jonathan Bryce

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