$13.5 Million for Social Housing
The Social Housing Programme under the Ministry of Housing and Community Development will continue after a budget allocation of $13.5 million, says Minister Premila Kumar. Her comment comes after the announcement of the 2020-2021 National Budget by the Attorney General and Minister for Economy, Aiyaz Sayed-Khaiyum, on Friday
night.
Housing programmes include the development of squatter settlements following a $2 million budget specifically for the project.
The three squatter settlements to be upgraded are Sakoca, Tore in Lautoka and Tavela in Nadi.
“For work to begin, it’s just a matter of going back to the Permanent Secretary and team for planning to begin,” Ms Kumar said.
She said there were speculations that the budget would be reduced because of the impact of COVID-19 on the economy.
“Today’s budget really ensures that the social housing programme, which is under this Ministry continues despite COVID-19,” Mrs Kumar said.
“Ordinary Fijians will benefit in this budget and the major change that we noticed is the assistance given to the first home buyers.
“So for anyone earning below $50, 000 and wants to construct a home they can now get $30, 000 as a subsidy to help them build a home. Similarly for $50,000 and above, $20 000 will be given to build the home.”
She said this incentive would encourage construction and create employment.
Ms Kumar added the $200,000 budgeted for small municipal councils would assist them recover revenue lost through business licensing.