Members of the public have applauded the announcement of a decrease in bus fare by the Fijian Competition & Consumer Commission (FCCC).

The FCCC had re-adjusted the bus fares with a 10 per cent reduction bringing much needed relief for low-income earners.

Sunila Devi, 65, who was travelling to Nadi with her grandson, Bal Krisha said the decrease in bus fare came at a time where people were struggling with a lot of financial issues.

Ms Devi said the new fare was something that would benefit the most vulnerable. “I usually travel on public transportation, and I welcome this new fare.”

Litia Yalewatu of Suva said the decrease in fare was something the public must all consider as a helping hand.

The 76-year-old said with the introduction of such help, members of the public would benefit even though it was a slight decrease.

“Everything is going up, prices of good, prices of fuel and small help like this for the public is good.”

Litia Lawatu 76 is happy with the 10
per cent Government assistance in
busfare from 1st of August , 2022. Photo: Ronald Kumar

$180 Welfare Assistance

The increase in social welfare assistance has been welcomed for many recipients.

Neetal Ranjana, a widow with two daughters, said this timely assistance was a ‘big help’.”

Ms Ranjana, who lost her husband a few years back, had to move to her mother’s house and receive assistance from the Government for her daughters. Ms Ranjana, 31, said the increase in social welfare assistance was seen by her family as timely.

In the 2022-2023 National Budget, Attorney-General and Minister for Economy Aiyaz Sayed-Khaiyum said the Government remained firm in providing assistance to the most vulnerable citizens in the country.

The Ministry of Women, Children & Poverty Alleviation was allocated $147.7 million in the 2022-2023 Budget.

Ms Ranjana and her family anticipate receiving their $180 social welfare assistance that will be paid out in two phases. About 100,000 Fijians will benefit from this initiative.

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