Residents and community members of Nausori area had an opportunity to express their views towards the formulation of a national development plan.
Catholic Women’s League president, Mrs Lidia Waiqalicaki today found an opportune time to raise queries in Nausori Catholic Church Hall and shared her views and experiences with the participants present at the meeting.
“We have rights as Fijian citizens to request for an improvement in basic necessities so that we can live in a clean and healthy environment,” Mrs Waiqalacaki said.
“It is important for girls to live in a secure environment and I would like to request the government to provide us with proper street lights so that women can feel more secure and safe when walking at night.”
Mrs Waiqalacaki added that this will also assist in eliminating violence against women.
Mrs Waiqalacaki also requested for better access to safe and improved roads, proper health care, better public transportation and that students being given proper scholarships with boarding houses.
“I am glad government is taking this consultation to the grass roots level and through this consultations, members of the public will be able to work together and partner with the relevant stakeholders that are here today so that in 20 years time we can have a better Fiji,” Mrs Waiqalacaki added.
Department of National Planning’s Chief Economist, Mr Paula Cirikayasawa said the consultation phase has been an eye-opening experience which has given his team ideas on what the people at the grass roots level need.
“We have received an overwhelming response from the public who have been eager to give their views and most have discussed concerns on livelihood issues such as the need for proper infrastructure, roads, health and sanitation, access to clean and safe drinking water,” Mr Cirikayasawa said.
“It is very important that the public is informed so that they can engage in this consultation process as this will have an influence on the livelihoods of our children, grandchildren and the next generation.”
The third week of consultation phase has successfully covered parts of Tailevu, Naitasiri, Namosi, Serua and Rewa provinces in the central division.