Attorney-General and Minister for Economy Aiyaz Sayed-Khaiyum says weather has affected infrastructure spending.

He was responding to calls at the Budget consultations at Sila Central High School in Nausori yesterday to improve drainage, roads and jetties. Concern was raised about flooding.

Mr Sayed-Khaiyum said one of the things that affected infrastructure spending was the weather.

A participant at the consultation, Luke Rokovada, had questioned whether bridges, and small jetties were covered in the infrastructure budget. Mr Sayed-Khaiyum replied yes.

Mr Rokovada also raised the issue of the high cost of kidney dialysis in Fiji and had suggested if the drugs for dialysis could be bought from India to reduce cost.

Former Sila Central High School Principal, Mesake Tukai, had requested an increase in teachers’ salaries since doctors were getting an 80 per cent increase.

Mr Sayed-Khaiyum said Parliament had been in discussion about civil service reforms.

All written submissions were taken into consideration. Other issues raised:

Transport services in the Nausori area

Establishment of village libraries to cater for the Rewa and Tailevu youths

The old Rewa bridge to be renovated

The dependency on microfinance enterprise grant

Increased budget for the forestry, fisheries, and agriculture sectors.

More awareness on substance abuse and drug use among youths in Fiji

Edited by Jonathan Bryce

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