Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for Finance, Professor Biman Prasad, emphasized the importance of regional cooperation in addressing the problem of illicit drugs in schools and communities. He made this statement during a meeting with the Commissioner of Central Division and nine associated agencies, discussing the development needs highlighted by local District Advisory Councillors.
Prasad urged parents, teachers, community leaders, religious figures, and other stakeholders to collaborate in the fight against drug issues. He instructed the District Advisory Councillors present to identify schools and neighborhoods with drug accessibility and to report these “red zones” to the police and relevant agencies.
Additional topics discussed included the challenges of school dropouts, prevalent violence against women, homelessness, enforcement of the minimum wage, waste management costs, the operation of the Nausori Health Centre, fertilizer subsidies, and issues concerning the Natovi jetty.
Regarding the enforcement of the minimum wage set at $4.50, Professor Prasad warned that businesses failing to comply would face severe consequences. He also directed the Ministry of Employment to carry out monitoring sessions with employers in the division to ensure adherence.
Moreover, Prasad proposed the establishment of a regional inter-agency coordination group to tackle the issues raised during the forum. He highlighted the necessity of holding regular meetings to ensure timely government action on these matters.