Fijian government to reduce dependence on foreign aid

Speaking in Fiji's parliament , Minister for Economy Aiyaz Sayed-Khaiyum confirmed the government and development partners are taking a unified approach to aid.

Sayed-Khaiyum says there is a long term plan for Fiji to become self-reliant.

“Ultimately our goal is, that one day we won’t need aid. We don’t want to be dependent on aid. Fiji is one of the lowest recipients of aid in the Southern Pacific. Certain Pacific Island countries, nearly ninety percent of their entire budget is driven by aid,” said Sayed Khaiyum.

Donor funding makes up about five percent of Fiji’s annual budget.

Meanwhile, the Fijian Parliament will on Thursday debate on whether or not MPs should have their sitting allowances increased.

This comes following the tabling of a report on the revision of salaries and allowances for MPs which was tabled by the Emoluments committee in the house today.

Committee chairperson Dr Brij Lal says changes to sitting allowances are needed.

“The committee is not recommending an increase in salary primarily because the nation is still recovering from Winston, but what is proposed however is an adjustment to allowances only to reflect the roles of MPs in their various functions. We have seen the hardship by MPs, thus and these adjustments are necessary that these MPs receive adequate support in pursuit of their duties.”

Currently MPs are entitled to a daily sitting allowance of $80.00 (US$40) for both parliament and committee sessions.


SOURCE: FBC NEWS