Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for Finance, Professor Biman Prasad, emphasized the importance of regional collaboration to address the issue of illicit drugs in schools and communities. He made these comments during a meeting with the Commissioner of the Central Division and representatives from nine line agencies, discussing the emerging developmental needs raised by District Advisory Councillors in the area.
Professor Prasad urged parents, teachers, community leaders, and religious representatives to unite in the fight against drug-related problems. He instructed the District Advisory Councillors at the meeting to identify schools and neighborhoods with drug access and compile a list to share with police and other relevant agencies to designate these as high-risk areas.
In addition to drug issues, the meeting covered various other pressing topics including school dropouts, cases of violence against women, the situation of street dwellers, enforcement of the minimum wage at $4.50, waste management costs, operations at the Nausori Health Centre, fertilizer subsidies, and the status of the Natovi jetty.
Regarding the enforcement of the minimum wage, Professor Prasad warned businesses that fail to comply would face strict consequences. He also instructed the Ministry of Employment to carry out monitoring sessions with employers to ensure adherence to the wage policy.
Furthermore, Professor Prasad suggested establishing a regional inter-agency coordination body to tackle the issues identified during the forum. He stressed the necessity for regular meetings to ensure timely coordination and resolution of concerns by the government.