Let Ambassadors lead overseas Fiji Day events, says FPSA

The Fiji Public Service Association (FPSA) has called for Fiji’s ambassadors to lead overseas Independence Day celebrations instead of sending Cabinet ministers on costly trips.

In a statement released yesterday, FPSA general secretary Judith Kotobalavu said future Fiji Day celebrations should be held locally to promote unity and patriotism, while Fiji’s ambassadors could represent the country abroad.

The call follows last week’s disclosure that Government spent $64,813.67 sending the Prime Minister, five ministers and an assistant minister abroad to celebrate Fiji's 55th Independence Day with the diaspora last month.

Justice Minister Siromi Turaga’s Wellington trip cost $11,783.84, making it the most expensive ministerial visit.

Ms Kotobalavu said disclosure of expenditure alone was insufficient.

“Disclosure alone does not absolve the responsibility to ensure that public funds are used in a manner that is necessary, and directly beneficial to the people of Fiji,” she said.

The association questioned spending tens of thousands of dollars on overseas appearances while public servants face minimal wage increases and essential services remain under-resourced.

FPSA called for a clear overseas travel expenditure policy with caps and justification requirements, and stronger oversight by the Ministry of Finance and Public Service Commission.

The union also demanded reinvestment of savings from unnecessary travel into essential public services and worker welfare.

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