Government of the Republic of Fiji
Government of the Republic of Fiji
03/12/2024 | Press release | Distributed by Public on 03/12/2024 00:45
ASST. MINISTER HON. ALITIA BAINIVALU'S PARLIAMENTARY RESPONSE TO HIS EXCELLENCY'S ADDRESS ON THE...
Good Morning Honourable Speaker
Please allow me to extend my greeting to the;
Honourable Prime Minister,
Honourable Leader of Opposition,
Honourable Ministers and Assistant Ministers,
Honourable Members of Parliament,
Members of the Public sitting in the gallery; and
All those tuning in live on Parliament's Facebook Channel
Ni Sa Yadra Vinaka
Honourable Speaker, I thank you for giving me the opportunity to speak in response to the Opening Address by His Excellency, the President of the Republic of Fiji, Turaga Na Tui Macuata, Ratu Wiliame Maivalili Katonivere, at the 2024 session of Parliament.
Honourable Speaker,
I would firstly like to thank the Almighty God for his guidance and direction for the past 14months.
To my Family - my husband, Aminiasi, my children - Sakiusa, Sanaila, Aloesi, Ruth, Vasiti and Makereta, my parents - thank you for your love and support. To my extended family from Ra, Cakaudrove, Bua and Kadavu, my relatives and friends.
"Vei Kemuni kece na wekaqu kei keimuni na kaiciqu - Lavo kai, Ako kai, Lovara kai ena nomuni vei dela ni vamua vauraga, Vinaka Valevu na nomuni veiokoni Vinaka"
Honourable Speaker,
As we convene for the commencement of this new legislative session, we are not merely witnesses to a procedural formality, but stewards of our nation's destiny.
The decisions we make, the policies we craft, and the debates we engage in will reverberate through the corridors of history, shaping the course of our future.
The 2024 Parliamentary Session: An Era of Unity, Democracy, and Progress
Honourable Speaker
The State Opening of Parliament for the 2024 session has signaled the dawn of a new era, one defined by a resolute commitment to unity, democracy, and progress.
We are reminded about the paramount importance of representing diverse voices and upholding the principles of democracy.
Unity Amidst Diversity: A Pillar of National Progress
Honourable Speaker
In a nation as richly diverse as ours, the pursuit of unity amidst diversity stands as an indispensable pillar of national progress.
His Excellency has eloquently echoed the need of fostering harmony among Fiji's ethnic communities and cultivating a spirit of respectful discourse and cooperation among our leaders. Indeed, embracing our collective diversity not as a source of division, but as a wellspring of strength, which is paramount to our journey towards a more cohesive and prosperous society.
Representing Diverse Voices and Upholding Democracy: A Sacred Trust
Honourable Speaker,
The bedrock of any vibrant democracy lies in representing diverse voices and upholding the principles of democratic governance. It is not enough to pay lip service to the notion of democracy; rather, we must actively strive to ensure that every citizen of Fiji feels not only heard but genuinely represented in these chambers.
Honourable Speaker,
While I proudly stand in this House today, and having just commemorated International Women's Day, it is my hope that I serve and inspire more women with the same ability and the same passion to serve. The Local Elections being brought back by the Coalition can very well be the pathway to more women participating in our democracy.
Financial Literacy: Empowering Individuals, Enriching Nations
Honourable Speaker,
In an increasingly complex and interconnected world, the imperative of financial literacy cannot be overstated. It is not merely a matter of balancing budgets or managing investments; rather, it is a fundamental prerequisite for individual empowerment and national prosperity.
By equipping our citizens with the requisite knowledge and skills to make informed financial decisions, we not only foster economic resilience at the grassroots level but also lay the groundwork for sustained national growth and development.
Financial literacy is not a luxury reserved for the elite; it is a universal right that must be afforded to all, irrespective of socioeconomic status or educational background.
Inclusive Development: Building a Nation for All
Honourable Speaker,
At the heart of our collective aspirations lies the vision of an inclusive society where every Fijian, irrespective of their background or circumstance, has the opportunity to thrive and contribute meaningfully to our nation's progress. Inclusive development calls for securing social progress and resilience for all people and ensuring that it will be sustainable in the long run.
I therefore fully support this Coalition Government's agenda efforts on the formulation of a new National Development Plan which is being consulted at the grassroot level.
Tourism and Economic Development: Pioneering a Path to Prosperity
Honourable Speaker,
The tourism sector stands as a linchpin of our nation's economic vitality, serving as a beacon of opportunity and prosperity for countless Fijians.
As we reflect on the remarkable growth and resilience of this pivotal industry, it is incumbent upon us to redouble our efforts to ensure its continued success and sustainability.
The statistics speak volumes: In January 2024 alone, Fiji welcomed 70,324 international visitors, marking a 104% increase from the previous year. Such robust growth not only bolsters our national GDP but also creates myriad opportunities for employment and entrepreneurship across our islands.
This year, we expect one million visitors for the first time. And as His Excellency noted, more visitors mean more demand for products and services and it also means more revenue for our economy and more
Fijians with jobs.
Hon Speaker, I would like to thank all the staff of the Ministry of Tourism and Civil Aviation for their hardwork and dedication for the past 14months.
National Sustainable Tourism Framework
Honourable Speaker,
The Ministry of Tourism and Civil Aviation will this year launch the National Sustainable Tourism Framework. It calls for tourism that is sustainable, resilient, and inclusive.
It will guide the sector in accelerating a prosperous visitor economy, ensure communities are empowered and part of that prosperity. It calls for greater attention to our diverse cultures and safeguarding our greatest asset - our pristine environment.
Linkages with Other Domestic Sectors
Honourable Speaker,
We know and have seen, that when tourism does well - so does other sectors.
Next week, we will be hosting the first of three Farm to Fork Workshops in partnership with the UN Food and Agriculture Organisation.
The initiative essentially aims to re-familiarise hotel key decision makers with the produce available locally, including fruits, vegetables, dairy products, meat, and seafood, introduce farmers to key decision makers of the hotel and explore opportunities to enhance utilisation and procurement, as well managing expectations of chefs, food and beverage managers and procurement officers. This way, the dalo farmer as His Excellency mentioned, they too can secure markets.
Honourable Speaker,
Last year, the Ministry of Tourism and Civil Aviation signed a Memorandum of Understanding with the National Trust of Fiji to promote more linkages to creative arts and heritage. Most recently, we have supported the installation of heritage panels around Suva City.
We will continue to support such synergies.
Regionalism
Honourable Speaker
The Coalition Government made strong commitments in support of regionalism. I am pleased to share that in May, we will be hosting the South Pacific Tourism Exchange, along the margins of the Pacific Tourism Organisation Board of Directors Meeting.
This is the first time the SPTE is being held in the Pacific, making Fiji the first Pacific country to host the event. The SPTE was previously held in Australia and New Zealand only.
Vanua Levu Tourism Development Program
Mr Speaker Sir,
Last year, the financing of the Fiji Tourism Development Program in Vanua Levu was approved by the World Bank's Board of Executive Directors. This is the first of three projects planned over ten years to help Fiji deliver its vision for more sustainable, inclusive, and resilient tourism in our second largest island.
This first phase of the program, led by the Ministry of Tourism, focuses on bolstering tourism in Vanua Levu, including Taveuni, by improving access to and climate resilience of essential services - such as drainage, sewage, and transport infrastructure. This includes the Labasa and Savusavu domestic airports, as well as an upgrade to the 95-kilometer road connecting the two towns.
Aviation
Honourable Speaker,
On aviation, I am pleased to share a number of legislative reforms we aim to deliver this year, beginning with Fiji's first Civil Aviation Master Plan. We will also be reviewing our national draft Aviation Policy to ensure it meets current needs.
Airport Infrastructure
Mr Speaker Sir,
Airport infrastructure development is equally important to support and sustain our economic development. Today, Fiji Airports manages approximately 6 million square kilometres of air space, with two international airports.
Greening of Fiji Airports is one of the key strategies for 2024 and beyond.
Solarisation and reduction of carbon emission activities such as purchase of electronic vehicles (EVs), changing all the external lights to solar lights and setting up a 3.5MW Nadi Airport solar system. More initiatives are being looked at by the sustainability team.
Digital transformation is an important strategy as we move towards contactless passenger services, use of artificial intelligence (AI), and use of advanced aviation technology to achieve efficiency and enhanced safety, security, and passenger experience. A new Air Traffic Management System has been implemented by the Fiji Airports Limited Air Traffic control team to support ADS-B Surveillance in the Fiji Domestic Airspace, Air Navigation Services upgrades, and Airport System upgrades to improve flight management.
Construction works for Labasa Terminal will commence mid 2024 at the current location of the terminal building and more land around the airport is required for future expansion for a larger Passenger Terminal Building in future. This has been identified in the Na Vualiku Tourism Development Project.
Fiji Airports will be embarking on the development of its 10 years strategic plan (2025 - 2034) in the next few months. The plan will inform its 3-year rolling business plan, and CAPEX plan aligned to its masterplans. The future of Fiji Airports remains promising.
As part of the Nadi Airport masterplan, Fiji Airports is in the process of acquiring a piece of land to access a new cargo facility on the North West precinct of the Nadi Airport. The Sales and Purchase agreement has been signed.
There are plans for a transit hotel and retail/commercial space and this will be progressed as a part of the landside development at the Nadi Airport. Tender is out for the Master Planning consultancy for the landside at Nadi and Nausori. 25% of our total income comes from commercial and helps fund our core airport operations and infrastructure which is costly.
Fiji Airports has invested around $7 million in purchasing 3 new Airport Rescue Fire Fighting Trucks for Nadi International Airport. One has arrived in December 2023 and two more are expected in July 2024. Works are underway for the replacement of the Fire Trucks in Nausori, Labasa, Savusavu and Matei and 3 new water Rescue Boats for Nadi by 2026.
Five new aerobridges costing a couple of million dollars are being procured and these will become available in 2025 because of the length of time it takes to manufacture them.
Honourable Speaker,
Nausori and 13 other outer island airports are owned by the Government of Fiji and managed by Fiji Airports without any funding from the Government. It cost approximately $15m in 2023 to operate these airports. Income derived from these airports account for only 25% of the annual operating cost. This is apart from the capital expenditures spent by Fiji Airports to upgrade some of them.
A Call to Collective Action
Honourable Speaker,
As we stand on the height of a new chapter in Fiji's storied history, let us reaffirm our unwavering commitment to fostering growth, enhancing connectivity, and championing sustainable practices in the tourism and civil aviation sectors.
Let us embrace the opportunities that lie before us with courage and conviction, mindful of the trust placed in us by the people of Fiji. Together, let us forge a path towards a brighter, more prosperous future for all.
In closing, I extend my heartfelt gratitude to each and every one of you for your dedication, your service, and your unwavering commitment to the ideals of democracy and progress. May we continue to work tirelessly in the service of our nation and its people.
May God Bless Us All and May God Bless Fiji.
Vinaka Saka.
Please allow me to extend my greeting to the;
Honourable Prime Minister,
Honourable Leader of Opposition,
Honourable Ministers and Assistant Ministers,
Honourable Members of Parliament,
Members of the Public sitting in the gallery; and
All those tuning in live on Parliament's Facebook Channel
Ni Sa Yadra Vinaka
Honourable Speaker, I thank you for giving me the opportunity to speak in response to the Opening Address by His Excellency, the President of the Republic of Fiji, Turaga Na Tui Macuata, Ratu Wiliame Maivalili Katonivere, at the 2024 session of Parliament.
Honourable Speaker,
I would firstly like to thank the Almighty God for his guidance and direction for the past 14months.
To my Family - my husband, Aminiasi, my children - Sakiusa, Sanaila, Aloesi, Ruth, Vasiti and Makereta, my parents - thank you for your love and support. To my extended family from Ra, Cakaudrove, Bua and Kadavu, my relatives and friends.
"Vei Kemuni kece na wekaqu kei keimuni na kaiciqu - Lavo kai, Ako kai, Lovara kai ena nomuni vei dela ni vamua vauraga, Vinaka Valevu na nomuni veiokoni Vinaka"
Honourable Speaker,
As we convene for the commencement of this new legislative session, we are not merely witnesses to a procedural formality, but stewards of our nation's destiny.
The decisions we make, the policies we craft, and the debates we engage in will reverberate through the corridors of history, shaping the course of our future.
The 2024 Parliamentary Session: An Era of Unity, Democracy, and Progress
Honourable Speaker
The State Opening of Parliament for the 2024 session has signaled the dawn of a new era, one defined by a resolute commitment to unity, democracy, and progress.
We are reminded about the paramount importance of representing diverse voices and upholding the principles of democracy.
Unity Amidst Diversity: A Pillar of National Progress
Honourable Speaker
In a nation as richly diverse as ours, the pursuit of unity amidst diversity stands as an indispensable pillar of national progress.
His Excellency has eloquently echoed the need of fostering harmony among Fiji's ethnic communities and cultivating a spirit of respectful discourse and cooperation among our leaders. Indeed, embracing our collective diversity not as a source of division, but as a wellspring of strength, which is paramount to our journey towards a more cohesive and prosperous society.
Representing Diverse Voices and Upholding Democracy: A Sacred Trust
Honourable Speaker,
The bedrock of any vibrant democracy lies in representing diverse voices and upholding the principles of democratic governance. It is not enough to pay lip service to the notion of democracy; rather, we must actively strive to ensure that every citizen of Fiji feels not only heard but genuinely represented in these chambers.
Honourable Speaker,
While I proudly stand in this House today, and having just commemorated International Women's Day, it is my hope that I serve and inspire more women with the same ability and the same passion to serve. The Local Elections being brought back by the Coalition can very well be the pathway to more women participating in our democracy.
Financial Literacy: Empowering Individuals, Enriching Nations
Honourable Speaker,
In an increasingly complex and interconnected world, the imperative of financial literacy cannot be overstated. It is not merely a matter of balancing budgets or managing investments; rather, it is a fundamental prerequisite for individual empowerment and national prosperity.
By equipping our citizens with the requisite knowledge and skills to make informed financial decisions, we not only foster economic resilience at the grassroots level but also lay the groundwork for sustained national growth and development.
Financial literacy is not a luxury reserved for the elite; it is a universal right that must be afforded to all, irrespective of socioeconomic status or educational background.
Inclusive Development: Building a Nation for All
Honourable Speaker,
At the heart of our collective aspirations lies the vision of an inclusive society where every Fijian, irrespective of their background or circumstance, has the opportunity to thrive and contribute meaningfully to our nation's progress. Inclusive development calls for securing social progress and resilience for all people and ensuring that it will be sustainable in the long run.
I therefore fully support this Coalition Government's agenda efforts on the formulation of a new National Development Plan which is being consulted at the grassroot level.
Tourism and Economic Development: Pioneering a Path to Prosperity
Honourable Speaker,
The tourism sector stands as a linchpin of our nation's economic vitality, serving as a beacon of opportunity and prosperity for countless Fijians.
As we reflect on the remarkable growth and resilience of this pivotal industry, it is incumbent upon us to redouble our efforts to ensure its continued success and sustainability.
The statistics speak volumes: In January 2024 alone, Fiji welcomed 70,324 international visitors, marking a 104% increase from the previous year. Such robust growth not only bolsters our national GDP but also creates myriad opportunities for employment and entrepreneurship across our islands.
This year, we expect one million visitors for the first time. And as His Excellency noted, more visitors mean more demand for products and services and it also means more revenue for our economy and more
Fijians with jobs.
Hon Speaker, I would like to thank all the staff of the Ministry of Tourism and Civil Aviation for their hardwork and dedication for the past 14months.
National Sustainable Tourism Framework
Honourable Speaker,
The Ministry of Tourism and Civil Aviation will this year launch the National Sustainable Tourism Framework. It calls for tourism that is sustainable, resilient, and inclusive.
It will guide the sector in accelerating a prosperous visitor economy, ensure communities are empowered and part of that prosperity. It calls for greater attention to our diverse cultures and safeguarding our greatest asset - our pristine environment.
Linkages with Other Domestic Sectors
Honourable Speaker,
We know and have seen, that when tourism does well - so does other sectors.
Next week, we will be hosting the first of three Farm to Fork Workshops in partnership with the UN Food and Agriculture Organisation.
The initiative essentially aims to re-familiarise hotel key decision makers with the produce available locally, including fruits, vegetables, dairy products, meat, and seafood, introduce farmers to key decision makers of the hotel and explore opportunities to enhance utilisation and procurement, as well managing expectations of chefs, food and beverage managers and procurement officers. This way, the dalo farmer as His Excellency mentioned, they too can secure markets.
Honourable Speaker,
Last year, the Ministry of Tourism and Civil Aviation signed a Memorandum of Understanding with the National Trust of Fiji to promote more linkages to creative arts and heritage. Most recently, we have supported the installation of heritage panels around Suva City.
We will continue to support such synergies.
Regionalism
Honourable Speaker
The Coalition Government made strong commitments in support of regionalism. I am pleased to share that in May, we will be hosting the South Pacific Tourism Exchange, along the margins of the Pacific Tourism Organisation Board of Directors Meeting.
This is the first time the SPTE is being held in the Pacific, making Fiji the first Pacific country to host the event. The SPTE was previously held in Australia and New Zealand only.
Vanua Levu Tourism Development Program
Mr Speaker Sir,
Last year, the financing of the Fiji Tourism Development Program in Vanua Levu was approved by the World Bank's Board of Executive Directors. This is the first of three projects planned over ten years to help Fiji deliver its vision for more sustainable, inclusive, and resilient tourism in our second largest island.
This first phase of the program, led by the Ministry of Tourism, focuses on bolstering tourism in Vanua Levu, including Taveuni, by improving access to and climate resilience of essential services - such as drainage, sewage, and transport infrastructure. This includes the Labasa and Savusavu domestic airports, as well as an upgrade to the 95-kilometer road connecting the two towns.
Aviation
Honourable Speaker,
On aviation, I am pleased to share a number of legislative reforms we aim to deliver this year, beginning with Fiji's first Civil Aviation Master Plan. We will also be reviewing our national draft Aviation Policy to ensure it meets current needs.
Airport Infrastructure
Mr Speaker Sir,
Airport infrastructure development is equally important to support and sustain our economic development. Today, Fiji Airports manages approximately 6 million square kilometres of air space, with two international airports.
Greening of Fiji Airports is one of the key strategies for 2024 and beyond.
Solarisation and reduction of carbon emission activities such as purchase of electronic vehicles (EVs), changing all the external lights to solar lights and setting up a 3.5MW Nadi Airport solar system. More initiatives are being looked at by the sustainability team.
Digital transformation is an important strategy as we move towards contactless passenger services, use of artificial intelligence (AI), and use of advanced aviation technology to achieve efficiency and enhanced safety, security, and passenger experience. A new Air Traffic Management System has been implemented by the Fiji Airports Limited Air Traffic control team to support ADS-B Surveillance in the Fiji Domestic Airspace, Air Navigation Services upgrades, and Airport System upgrades to improve flight management.
Construction works for Labasa Terminal will commence mid 2024 at the current location of the terminal building and more land around the airport is required for future expansion for a larger Passenger Terminal Building in future. This has been identified in the Na Vualiku Tourism Development Project.
Fiji Airports will be embarking on the development of its 10 years strategic plan (2025 - 2034) in the next few months. The plan will inform its 3-year rolling business plan, and CAPEX plan aligned to its masterplans. The future of Fiji Airports remains promising.
As part of the Nadi Airport masterplan, Fiji Airports is in the process of acquiring a piece of land to access a new cargo facility on the North West precinct of the Nadi Airport. The Sales and Purchase agreement has been signed.
There are plans for a transit hotel and retail/commercial space and this will be progressed as a part of the landside development at the Nadi Airport. Tender is out for the Master Planning consultancy for the landside at Nadi and Nausori. 25% of our total income comes from commercial and helps fund our core airport operations and infrastructure which is costly.
Fiji Airports has invested around $7 million in purchasing 3 new Airport Rescue Fire Fighting Trucks for Nadi International Airport. One has arrived in December 2023 and two more are expected in July 2024. Works are underway for the replacement of the Fire Trucks in Nausori, Labasa, Savusavu and Matei and 3 new water Rescue Boats for Nadi by 2026.
Five new aerobridges costing a couple of million dollars are being procured and these will become available in 2025 because of the length of time it takes to manufacture them.
Honourable Speaker,
Nausori and 13 other outer island airports are owned by the Government of Fiji and managed by Fiji Airports without any funding from the Government. It cost approximately $15m in 2023 to operate these airports. Income derived from these airports account for only 25% of the annual operating cost. This is apart from the capital expenditures spent by Fiji Airports to upgrade some of them.
A Call to Collective Action
Honourable Speaker,
As we stand on the height of a new chapter in Fiji's storied history, let us reaffirm our unwavering commitment to fostering growth, enhancing connectivity, and championing sustainable practices in the tourism and civil aviation sectors.
Let us embrace the opportunities that lie before us with courage and conviction, mindful of the trust placed in us by the people of Fiji. Together, let us forge a path towards a brighter, more prosperous future for all.
In closing, I extend my heartfelt gratitude to each and every one of you for your dedication, your service, and your unwavering commitment to the ideals of democracy and progress. May we continue to work tirelessly in the service of our nation and its people.
May God Bless Us All and May God Bless Fiji.
Vinaka Saka.