Nadi Town Council’s special administrator, Prem Singh, has conveyed his optimism that Shashi Kiran, the Minister for Women, Children and Social Protection, will take immediate action to address the growing number of street dwellers in Nadi. Singh emphasized the critical need for collaborative efforts among government ministries, social welfare services, and religious organizations to combat homelessness and reduce instances of loitering in the area.
During a recent meeting with the Nadi Chamber of Commerce, Singh pointed out the necessity for ongoing monitoring and the involvement of various government agencies, such as those related to land, education, and the iTaukei community. He believes that a coordinated approach is essential to mitigate the impact of street begging and the associated social issues.
Minister Kiran expressed her agreement, emphasizing that collective action is vital for developing effective strategies to support the vulnerable populations. She highlighted the complexities faced by Nadi’s social welfare office, which deals with numerous challenging cases including drug-related incidents and family violence. Kiran recounted specific instances where she had intervened to help those exploited for begging, advocating for protective measures for children and mental health support.
Local business owners, such as Ashfaaq Khan and Marc McElrath, have raised concerns regarding the disturbances caused by street dwellers near their establishments, calling for a unified response from authorities. They stress the importance of addressing both community safety and the needs of those who are vulnerable.
The situation in Nadi illustrates the community’s commitment to supporting those in need while also ensuring a safe environment for businesses. With ongoing discussions and collaboration between local stakeholders, there is hope for compassionate solutions that effectively address homelessness and its underlying causes. The collective efforts reflect a positive outlook for the community, as it seeks to create a harmonious environment where both the vulnerable and local enterprises can thrive.
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