Heads of Departments of various Government ministries and organisations have been urged to work together to help revive the Northern economy.
While addressing the HODs during a meeting with Minister for Rural and Maritime Development and Disaster Management Hon. Inia Seruiratu, Commissioner Northern Division Mr. Uraia Rainima said this would be one of their main focuses going forward.
“We need to rebuild and revive the economy here in the North. We’ve used so much money in these two disasters and we need to get our people working. In order for us to do that, we must be up to par and work together so we can move ahead together. Partnership is important,” Mr Rainima said.
He also advised the HODs to ensure that they continued to visit areas affected by both TC Yasa and TC Ana despite the conclusion of the 20-day extension to the Declaration for a State of Natural Disaster for the North on Saturday.
In his remarks at the meeting, Minister Seruiratu also reminded the North team to continue to coordinate with all Government counterparts.
“I urge you all to provide the necessary assistance and continue to coordinate and carry with the rest of the work,” Hon. Seruiratu said.
“Just reflect on your own work and achievements. That’s something that we need to do. Just self-critic what you and your organisations have achieved because learning is a never ending process. There is no such thing as being perfect.
“We need to also pick up the remaining work. This will link up to developments and your normal programmes post TC Yasa and TC Ana so we can bring back that element of self-reliance and normalcy and confidence in the people. As you all know recovery and rehabilitation is not only short term but there are long term things that needs to be fixed as well, so you need to pick it up very quickly and continue to work as a team.”
Minister Seruiratu was touring the Northern Division with Permanent Secretary Mr. David Kolitagane to visit the various teams manning disaster operations in the North and at the same time, check on the progress of Government’s operations post TC Yasa and TC Ana.
The visit concluded with a thanksgiving service at the Nasea Methodist Church in Labasa on Sunday.