The chairman of the Public Service Commission (PSC), Luke Rokovada, highlighted the challenges faced in Fiji’s climate change response efforts due to capacity and resource limitations at the policy level. Speaking at a climate change and capacity-building workshop held by the Fiji Public Service Association in Suva, Rokovada emphasized the necessity for the public to have access to information regarding the country’s climate change responses, as mandated by the Climate Change Act.
Rokovada underscored that public consultation is crucial, along with the need for government ministries to incorporate climate change considerations into their national budget plans. He pointed out that strategic development plans play a significant role in governance, but their effectiveness is contingent upon strategic communication and meaningful public engagement.
He further noted that the repercussions of climate change on healthcare, emergency services, and the workforce are pressing issues that require attention. The Climate Change Act of 2021 addresses these concerns by establishing a framework for revising governance arrangements and incorporating climate change issues into government operations and policy formulation.
Notably, Section 24 of the Act outlines the processes to assess key performance indicators and job descriptions for civil servants, ensuring that they possess the necessary skills to manage climate-related risks and meet the objectives set by the Climate Change Act.
This article sheds light on important steps being taken to enhance governance regarding climate change in Fiji. By focusing on developing human resources and improving public participation, there is hope for more effective climate change mitigation and adaptation strategies in the future.
In summary, this approach not only aims to strengthen the governance framework but also to empower communities to engage more actively in responding to climate-related challenges, fostering a collaborative spirit in tackling such a critical global issue.
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