Councillors to be Elected for Local Govt
Changes are expected to take place in the Ministry of Housing and Local Government to ensure efficient services to Fijians.
This will include the restoration of councilors in local municipalities, says the Minister for Housing and Local Government, Maciu Katamotu.
He said he would start changes in the Ministry of Local Government. “For the Ministry of Housing and Local Government, we will start with Local Government first. One of our plans initially is to ensure that we try and elect councilors for all local municipalities in Fiji,” Mr Katamotu said.
“We are working on that right now and also trying to come up with new initiatives that we believe will improve our services in the provision of affordable housing and also ensuring that our stakeholders deserve the best services from the ministry.
“What we want is to have representatives from all areas within the local municipalities have a say in the running of the municipalities.” Mr Katamotu said it was important that he worked with stakeholders to ensure that the objectives of Government were met.
“I have to ensure that we align ourselves with the policies of the new Government. I have to ensure that these policies are implemented and the changes that have to be made are made,” he said. Meanwhile, during his meeting with National Fire Authority (NFA) officers on Thursday, Mr Katamotu reminded them of the importance of working as a team over the next four years.
“You have been doing a great service to this nation,” he said.
“I want to thank you personally and I commend all the work you have done.
“I encourage all of us to work as a team. It is very important for us to note that we are public service and we have a duty and obligation to serve our country and to serve our people.
“You have to ensure that at all times we provide the best service to our people. The ministry is here to help and assist you. We always want to encourage you to work as a team.
“If we don’t work as a team, we will not be able to achieve the objective as an institution that is there to protect the properties, lives and the welfare of everyone in Fiji.” He encouraged every Fijian to be vigilant this festive season.