Deputy Prime Minister and Finance Minister Professor Biman Prasad announced that $2 million has been allocated for this fiscal year to address the issue of Asian Subterranean Termites (AST).
During a session in Parliament, Professor Prasad mentioned the formation of a task force aimed at bolstering the Government’s efforts to assist households affected by the AST infestation.
To provide support for those whose homes have sustained significant damage due to the termites, the Government is launching a ‘Termite Subsidy Programme,’ primarily targeting residents in Lautoka, Ba, Nadi, and Rakiraki.
The programme offers a subsidy of $5,000 for households with a total income below $30,000, and $2,000 for those with incomes ranging from $30,000 to $50,000.
According to Professor Prasad, the Lautoka City Council received 1,327 applications, of which 448 have been verified to meet the programme’s criteria and have already received subsidies totaling $2.2 million.
Additionally, the Minister noted that 327 applications have been verified and will be processed for payment in the upcoming months, while 160 applications are awaiting verification, 392 require further clarification, and 54 applicants were not successful.
Professor Prasad highlighted that the long-term goal is to eliminate AST, with households receiving subsidies also being provided with a termite baiting system, considered the most effective method to combat the infestation.