Public Service Commission (PSC) chairman Luke Rokovada recently addressed the challenges of addressing climate change in Fiji, highlighting that efforts at the policy level are often hindered by capacity and resource constraints. Speaking at a climate change and capacity-building workshop organized by the Fiji Public Service Association in Suva, he emphasized the importance of making information about Fiji’s climate response accessible to the public, as mandated by the Climate Change Act.
Rokovada stressed the need for public consultations and the imperative that ministries incorporate climate change considerations and community responses into their national budget plans. He pointed out that while strategic development plans are critical to governance, their effectiveness relies on strategic communication and active engagement with the community.
He further noted that robust governance is essential for a functional democracy, influencing how power is utilized in managing the nation’s economic and social resources geared towards development. Rokovada raised concerns about how climate change impacts sectors like healthcare and emergency services, affecting civil servants, public utilities, and citizens alike.
The Climate Change Act of 2021 acknowledges these challenges and establishes a framework aimed at reforming governance structures and decision-making processes to embed climate change considerations in government operations and policy development. Additionally, he highlighted Section 24 of the Act, which outlines processes for reviewing civil servants’ key performance indicators and job descriptions, ensuring they possess the necessary skills to handle climate change risks and achieve the objectives set out in the Climate Change Act.
This proactive stance from the PSC and the Fiji government signals a commitment to addressing climate change challenges head-on, indicating that while obstacles exist, there is a clear path towards improvement and better resource allocation. With continued focus and community engagement, Fiji is working towards a more resilient future amidst the climate crisis.
In summary, the article discusses the remarks made by PSC chairman Luke Rokovada regarding the barriers to effective climate change responses in Fiji, stressing the necessity for improved governance, strategic communication, and skill development among civil servants to tackle these pressing issues effectively.
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