Leader of the Opposition, Inia Seruiratu, has urged the government to take decisive action to curb the misuse of government vehicles and improve road safety. During a discussion in Parliament on the Consolidated Review report of the Office of the Attorney-General’s annual reports covering the years 2006 to 2023, he highlighted a persistent problem with vehicle-related incidents and regulatory compliance across various ministries.
Seruiratu called for more stringent measures to minimize accidents involving government vehicles, pointing out that he frequently observes government cars in residential areas, a contradiction to established public service regulations that entitle only ministers and permanent secretaries to such vehicles. He expressed concern over the lack of enforcement of existing rules, which he believes contributes to both the misuse and subsequent accidents involving these vehicles.
He further suggested that the government should implement accountability practices similar to those in New Zealand, where the senior most official in a vehicle is deemed responsible for any incidents, regardless of who is driving. This, he argues, could foster a greater sense of responsibility among officials using government transport.
The Finance Ministry had recently issued a circular addressing this issue, emphasizing that government vehicles must only be used for official duties. This circular laid out guidelines stipulating that drivers must possess a valid license and a defensive driving certificate, along with authorization from relevant authorities. Despite these measures, former discussions by opposition MPs, including Jone Usamate, have pointed out that many drivers still violate road regulations such as speeding and misusing emergency lights.
With the consistent reports of the misuse of government vehicles and the pressing need for accountability highlighted in recent parliamentary discussions, there is a clear call to action. By enhancing oversight and enforcing existing policies, the government can not only reduce accidents but also ensure that public resources are utilized effectively, preserving the integrity of government operations.
This issue underscores the necessity for continuous improvement in vehicle management policies and reinforces the importance of public servant accountability to promote a safer community. The proactive discussions around these regulatory issues signal hope for significant reforms that would bring about better governance and public safety measures in the future.
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