Fijians are urged to lodge complaints about their district advisory counsellors with the Ministry of Rural and Maritime Development, if they were not performing.

National Federation Party member Parmod Chand told Parliament that while out on community visits, he was told that some district advisory counsellors were spending more time overseas.

Minister for Rural and Maritime Development Inia Seruiratu explained that the district advisory counsellors were appointed following recommendations by community members.

In the event of non-performance, he said the onus was on community members to register their complaints with the ministry.

District advisory councils have received an increase of 15 per cent in their allowance in the 2017-2018 National Budget.

There are 287 district advisory counsellors in 17 major district country wide; $740,000 has been allocated for their allowance.

“Advisory counsellors are appointed by communities and if they are not performing or are absent, notify us and action will be taken.

A change has to come from the communities since they elect the advisory counsellors,” Mr Seruiratu said.

Previously, just sitting allowance was given to district advisory counsellors, for the work they do and their need to travel was factored in and allowances have been made for that too.

Edited by Naisa Koroi

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