The Ministry of Women, Children and Social Protection is working on addressing the issues faced by street dwellers by identifying their psychosocial challenges, including poverty and mental health concerns. Minister Lynda Tabuya noted that welfare officers do not have the authority to remove these individuals from the streets, as this responsibility falls to the police.
During a recent interview with The Fiji Times online news portal, The Lens@177, Tabuya shared that last year’s profiling of street dwellers in Suva revealed a population of 20 to 30 individuals at any given time. She mentioned that the ministry’s initial initiatives are somewhat limited in scope and emphasized that welfare officers lack the legal power to take street dwellers off the streets.
Tabuya highlighted the ongoing collaboration with the Ministry of Health and faith-based organizations to offer counseling and safe spaces for those in need. She pointed out that many of the individuals profiled exhibit psychosocial issues and require mental health support, which falls under the purview of the Ministry of Health.
She expressed the hope that one day they might be able to assist street dwellers by taking them to health centers or St Giles Hospital for care, but noted that many prefer to return to the streets after receiving help.
Tabuya also expressed gratitude to the Methodist Church of Fiji for making available its properties to assist those requiring assistance, mentioning facilities in Serua, Ba, and Savusavu. Ongoing discussions with churches aim to provide safe spaces where street dwellers can enjoy meals and social interactions.