Delays in the Cogea Relocation Project on Vanua Levu have resulted in a conflict between the Fiji Council of Social Services (FCOSS) and the Ministry of Forestry. This project was initiated to assist families displaced by Tropical Cyclone Yasa in December 2020, which left 18 households homeless.
In a recent statement, the Ministry of Forestry expressed concerns over FCOSS’s call for reimbursement of project funds, clarifying its contributions which included processing timber for ten homes, utilizing portable sawmills and mahogany from the Fiji Hardwood Corporation Ltd. The ministry pointed to financial and logistical issues under FCOSS’s management, citing delayed payments to contractors and insufficient fuel for machinery as major disruptive factors. They noted that unaddressed concerns regarding contractor payments have negatively impacted the project’s morale and progress.
Furthermore, the ministry highlighted a lack of a formal memorandum of understanding (MOU) with FCOSS, which has led to confusion and ineffective coordination in project implementation. They suggested that construction should commence before further timber processing to avoid inefficiencies.
On the other hand, FCOSS responded to the ministry’s claims by labeling them as inaccurate. They reported completing two houses and emphasized that timber stockpiled at the Naro site prior to their involvement was improperly milled and unsuitable due to exposure. FCOSS also noted that it invested significantly in the training of chainsaw operators and financial obligations regarding the project.
FCOSS refuted the ministry’s assertions that FCOSS was responsible for the delays, clarifying that the project operates on a tranche-financed model that necessitates meticulous reporting, which can cause delays due to communication challenges. They accused the ministry of poor engagement, including failing to attend crucial meetings and issuing stop work notices without proper site assessments.
Both agencies have acknowledged the need for a formal agreement to clarify their respective roles. FCOSS called for an audit of the Ministry of Forestry in 2025 to investigate discrepancies and community grievances linked to their projects.
As the dispute continues, the families in Cogea remain in limbo, awaiting the completion of their homes. FCOSS hopes to meet a June 2025 deadline, despite the hurdles they face. Resolving this issue is crucial for the vulnerable families depending on the relocation project, and there is hope that constructive dialogue between the involved parties will lead to a positive outcome, facilitating the timely delivery of much-needed housing solutions.
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