The Budget allocation for the military came under intense scrutiny from Opposition MPs in Parliament yesterday.

They demanded a detailed explanation on even some of the minor items.

While examining heads of the Budget allocations, the Opposition MPs sought an explanation on why the budget for Black Rock had been increased to $2 million from last year’s allocation.

Minister for Defence Ratu Inoke Kubuobola said that Black Rock in Nadi accommodated soldiers in training before going for peace keeping duties overseas.

SODELPA Opposition MP Aseri Radrodro then questioned why there was an increase of $10,000 towards the renovations and upgrade of RFMF infrastructure.

In response, Ratu Inoke said it was to accommodate the refurbishment of Queen Elizabeth Barracks.

He added it was a total new allocation for this new financial year also including the renovations of a new kitchen at QEB and offices at Berkley Crescent.

Ratu Inoke also said they were looking for funds to assist with the development of Black Rock.

Questions were also raised on budget allocations on the purchase of special medical equipment of $300,000. The Attorney-General and Minister for Economy, Aiyaz Sayed-Khaiyum said the fund was for the purchase of dental and health equipment.

Ratu Inoke said the $20,000 budget allocation for special joint operations was for training purposes between the military and police.

The RFMF received a a total budget allocation of $96.7 million.

Edited by Naisa Koroi

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