The government has announced that it will not be reviewing the minimum wage rate of five dollars in the near future, shifting its focus toward enhancing workforce productivity instead. Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for Finance, Professor Biman Prasad, shared this development while addressing concerns regarding the effective implementation of a recently declared three percent pay increase for civil servants as part of the new budget.
He emphasized that this salary increment is closely tied to the expectation of improved service delivery and efficiency within the public sector. “There is no shortage of funds to enhance the Immigration Department’s speed and efficiency in processing permits,” Professor Prasad stated, underscoring that adequate budgetary provisions have been made to ensure timely service delivery.
Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for Communications, Manoa Kamikamica, further assured that there is a solid plan in place for transformational improvements within the government over the coming years. He mentioned a recent collaboration with a team from the UAE, which recently conducted a review of various government agencies. They are expected to provide a report that aligns with the government’s digital strategy, helping to identify which components can be improved.
This commitment reflects a positive trajectory toward sustained progress, with hope being emphasized through the government’s focus on achieving meaningful change. By concentrating on worker productivity and service enhancements, the government seeks to foster a more efficient public sector that can better meet the needs of citizens.
In a related context, it is notable that there have been discussions surrounding the utilization of previously allocated budgets within various ministries, a concern highlighted by Professor Prasad in earlier statements. He pointed out that certain funds have gone unutilized, leading to inefficiencies in executing projects critical for community welfare. Furthermore, plans to establish a training institute for civil servants aim to bolster performance and overall service delivery within these departments.
This proactive approach signals a dedication to improving both public services and employee morale, potentially leading to a brighter and more efficient future for civil service in Fiji.
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