The government has implemented reforms for civil servants with support from the Australian government.
This information was disclosed by Minister for Finance, Biman Prasad, in Nadi in response to a question from Nadi Chamber of Commerce and Industry Chair, Dr. Ram Raju, regarding wage increases for civil servants.
“For the increase in wages for the civil service, how is the government going to increase the activities for them?” Dr. Raju asked.
Minister Prasad emphasized the importance of ensuring that civil servants are performing well. He noted that large budgets allocated to various ministries were not being fully utilized.
“For example, we are addressing environmental issues such as water supply for Viti Levu and Vanua Levu. If ministries like public works and lands do not organize and implement plans effectively, these projects won’t be completed,” Prasad stated.
He mentioned that the health ministry had received a significant budget last year, but utilization was poor, resulting in delays in medical supplies and undelivered services.
“We expect the civil service, along with our permanent secretaries and ministers, to ensure that services are delivered according to the allocations provided,” Prasad added.
Mr. Prasad also revealed plans to establish a training institute for the civil service.