Environmental health officers face abuse and assault while protecting communities, Parliament told

Environmental health officers tasked with protecting communities from public health risks are facing hostility, abuse and even physical assault while carrying out their duties, Parliament heard on Friday.

The Fiji Institute of Environmental Health told the Standing Committee on Social Affairs that officers inspecting homes, villages and communities often worked in difficult conditions and, at times, encountered resistance from members of the public.

Institute general secretary Onisimo Sadranu said officers remained committed to their work despite the challenges.

"They continue to serve by conviction that protecting public health is not just their job, it is truly a calling," he said.

Mr Sadranu said officers had travelled long distances by boat and on foot, reasoned patiently with households and worked in harsh conditions, only to be met with hostility.

The institute, which represents about 200 practitioners across government, the military, academia and civil society, was appearing before the committee to make its submission on the Public Health Amendment Bill 2026.

Mr Sadranu said the bill's proposed powers of entry, which would allow officers to legally enter properties as part of their official duties, was a welcome measure and aligned with international best practice.

Institute president Josefa Tabua said the submission was evidence-based and consistent with global standards.

"We have a big responsibility to our public, and our presence here today confirms our commitment in advancing environmental health to protect public health in Fiji," Mr Tabua said.