Government of the Republic of Fiji
Government of the Republic of Fiji
05/07/2024 | Press release | Distributed by Public on 05/07/2024 21:49
DECISIONS MADE AT THE 8TH CABINET MEETING HELD ON 7 MAY 2024
The Peoples' Coalition Cabinet held its eight meeting of 2024 on Tuesday 7 May 2024. The meeting was chaired by the Acting Prime Minister, Hon. Viliame Gavoka.
The decisions of Cabinet include the following:
REVITALISATION OF THE SHIPBUILDING SECTOR
Cabinet approved the engagement of the Australian Infrastructure Financing Facility for the Pacific (AIFFP) to facilitate the tender and selection process for a consultant to conduct a feasibility study at a grant of up to AU$1 million for a new shipbuilding facility in Fiji.
The feasibility study will focus on the existing Government Shipyard and a potential site in Lautoka, and recommend the most suitable site for a new shipyard for Fiji.
The engagement of the AIFFP is part of a Memorandum of Understanding between the Government of Australia and the Government of Fiji for port infrastructure and services which includes the development of the shipbuilding sector.
COMMONWEALTH SECRETARIAT CAPACITY - BUILDING WORKSHOP ON TREATY BODY REPORTING AND STRENGTHENING OF NATIONAL MECHANISMS FOR IMPLEMENTATION, REPORTING AND FOLLOW - UP
Cabinet agreed that Fiji host the Commonwealth Secretariat Capacity-Building Workshop on Treaty Body Reporting and Strengthening of National Mechanisms for Implementation, Reporting and Follow-Up (NMIRFs) from 9 - 11 May 2024.
The capacity-building workshop is organised in response to several requests received by the Commonwealth Secretariat from the Pacific member States seeking technical assistance to reduce the backlog of reports to treaty bodies.
It will also discuss the role, mandate and different types of NMIRFs with examples and good practices from the Pacific that Fiji can consider and ultimately adopt as a sustainable way forward of meeting its reporting obligations (in a timely manner) under each human rights treaty and convention.
THE COUNTRY REVIEW REPORT OF FIJI FOR THE UNITED NATIONS CONVENTION AGAINST CORRUPTION
Cabinet endorsed the country review report for Fiji's second cycle of review under United Nations Convention Against Corruption (UNCAC) review mechanism framework.
The report will be submitted to the United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime for publication on its website.
The Review Mechanism is a peer review process supporting States parties to the Convention and the Protocols in the effective implementation of these instruments, as well as helping States parties to identify and substantiate specific needs for technical assistance and promoting international cooperation.
UPDATE ON THE NEW NATIONAL DEVELOPMENT PLAN AND FEEDBACK FROM THE NATIONWIDE CONSULTATIONS
Cabinet was provided with an update on the consultations undertaken for the development of the new National Development Plan (NDP).
Nationwide public consultations were conducted all across four divisions from 14 February till the end of March 2024 with around 330 meetings covering a population of more than 21,000 people. Additionally, a total of 128 written submissions have been received from the general public through email, post and office visitation.
Based on the feedback and to resolve the basic issues on the ground that affect people's lives daily, the new NDP will be guided by the concept/theme of "getting the basics right", especially within the 3-year period, which will focus on enhancing the provision of necessities that can tangibly improve the quality of life of ordinary Fijians. The draft NDP is expected to be submitted to Cabinet by the end of next month.
FIJI SPARTAN TRIFECTA 2023 - POST EVENT REPORT
Cabinet was updated on the inaugural Fiji Spartan Trifecta post event report. The Event took place from 9 to 12 November 2023 in Sabeto, Nadi.
The Event saw a total of 25 countries represented with over 3,370 attendees of which 65 percent were international participants. With the success of the inaugural Event, it is anticipated that interest from more international participants will increase for future Events.
The tournament is also expected to grow into a self-sustaining event securing increased private-sector sponsorship.
NATIONAL SUSTAINABLE TOURISM FRAMEWORK
Cabinet endorsed Fiji's National Sustainable Tourism Framework (NSTF 2024 - 2034). The NSTF presents the collective vision and goals of the Fijian tourism industry.
It outlines the overarching vision of transforming the sector to ensure a sustainable future that has the economic and social wellbeing of our people, our ocean, our environment, and our culture at its heart.
The NSTF Implementation Committee will be the consultative mechanism and executive arm for the implementation of the NSTF and shall be Chaired by the Permanent Secretary for Tourism and Civil Aviation.
POLICY FRAMEWORK FOR SIGNIFICANT INVESTMENTS IN FIJI
Cabinet approved the Policy Framework for Significant Investments for Fiji. With a focus on enhancing economic development, sustainability, and social impact, this Policy Framework will serve as a strategic roadmap to attract investments across critical sectors capable of significantly influencing Fiji's economy and infrastructure development.
It aims to overcome the challenges faced by investors in Fiji which include uncertainties surrounding regulations, limited access to financing, environmental compliance issues, and social impact considerations highlighted by previous investment projects in the country.
INCREASE IN GRAVEL AND SAND ROYALTIES AND RECOMPENSE FOR THE LOSS OF FISHING RIGHTS
Cabinet approved new royalty rates to be charged by the Department of Lands, on gravel, sand, soil, common stones, soap stones, lime or other similar materials extracted (Gravel and Sand Royalty Rates).
Current rates were set in 1997 and are only for Sand and Gravel at $2.00 per cubic meter and Sand sold from drainage and irrigation dump sites at $4.00 per cubic meter.
The new rates outlined in the table below, are aligned to the rates charged by the iTaukei Lands Trust Board (iTLTB):
DEVELOPMENT OF NATIONAL LABOUR MOBILITY POLICY FRAMEWORK AND STRATEGY FOR SUSTAINABLE DEVELOPMENT AND CLIMATE RESILIENCE IN FIJI
Cabinet approved the development of a National Labour Mobility Policy Framework and Strategy for Sustainable Development and Climate Resilience in Fiji.
The policy framework will be developed through technical assistance from the International Organisation for Migration (IOM).
INTRODUCTION OF NEW GENETIC LINE OF FRESHWATER PRAWN BROODSTOCK
Cabinet approved the introduction of new freshwater prawn, Macrobrachium Rosenbergii (M. rosenbergii ), broodstock genetic line, with the assistance of the Pacific Community.
The freshwater aquaculture project aims to support freshwater prawn farmers through comprehensive assistance, including seed supply, technical guidance, advisory services, and monitoring initiatives, however, growth in the freshwater prawns in the Pacific region has occurred more slowly than expected.
The current genetic stock of M. rosenbergii is now 16 years old requires the introduction of a new genetic line of giant freshwater prawns to ensure the overall health and resilience of the prawn population.
The infusion of this new genetic line is anticipated to significantly boost the production rates of freshwater prawns, promoting sustainability and economic viability in Fiji's aquaculture sector.
JAPAN FUNDING FOR A FISH RESEARCH VESSEL AND ICE-MAKING MACHINES
Cabinet approved the Exchange of Notes and related documents with the Government of Japan for grant aid of approximately 10 million Fijian Dollars for a fish research vessel and ice-making machines.
This financial support underscores the importance of enhancing Fiji's fisheries infrastructure and capacity, aligning with broader bilateral cooperation efforts between Japan and Fiji.
The fish research vessel will be used to conduct fish stock assessments to evaluate the health of local fisheries, evaluating the marine environment for conservation and management purposes, providing training on various fishing techniques to enhance skills and promote sustainability, and serving as a collection point for fisheries products from fisherfolk, women, youth groups, and cooperatives.
The ice-making machines will be for the Labasa Fisheries Station to cater for increase in demand for ice from fisherfolks in the Northern Division.
DEVELOPMENT OF A NATIONAL LAND COVER CHANGE MAPPING SYSTEM FOR FIJI
Cabinet approved the development of a comprehensive National Land Cover Change Mapping System for Fiji.
Currently, different ministries provide data using varying methodologies, leading to inconsistencies and challenges in reporting.
To address this issue, the Fiji Geospatial Information Management Council (FGIMC) has established a National Land Cover Change Mapping Working Group (NLCMWG) tasked with developing and implementing a standardised national land cover change mapping system.
A comprehensive and consistent land cover and land cover change mapping system is crucial for accurate reporting under international agreements and for informed decision-making at the national level.
The proposed system will contribute to tracking progress on several SDGs, particularly those related to environment, climate change, and land cover.
REMODELLING OF PUBLIC WORKS DEPARTMENT FOR RURAL ROADS AND RURAL WATER CONSTRUCTION AND MAINTENANCE IN FIJI
Cabinet approved the remodelling of the Public Works Department (PWD) within the Ministry of Public Works, Meteorological Services and Transport to effectively manage infrastructure development in the rural areas.
This will include construction and maintenance of rural roads, water and sanitation, energy, as well as the construction and maintenance of all government buildings and government quarters.
The PWD has historically played a pivotal role in the development and maintenance of infrastructure throughout the nation. However, over the years, as a result of implementing the public sector reform, the PWD has faced challenges that led to its diminished capacity and effectiveness.
Centralising responsibility for rural infrastructure under the PWD will allow for a more integrated, better coordinated, and holistic approach to rural infrastructure development and maintenance.
DIRECT FUNDING ARRANGEMENT BETWEEN THE GOVERNMENT OF AUSTRALIA AND THE GOVERNMENT OF THE REPUBLIC OF FIJI IN RELATION TO BUDGET SUPPORT PROGRAMME
Cabinet approved grant funding support pledged by the Australian Government in the sum of AUD58 million (grant) as general budget support for fiscal year (FY) 2023/2024.
The overall goal of the grant provided by the Australian Government is to provide financial support to the Fiji Government in achieving economic and fiscal reforms as agreed to by the development partners.
The key reform areas include contributing to more effective and accountable Public Financial Management, and contributing to economic reforms for enhanced recovery and resilience.
GRANT AGREEMENT WITH THE GOVERNMENT OF THE REPUBLIC OF INDONESIA ON THE DEVELOPMENT OF THE REGIONAL TRAINING CENTER AND DEMONSTRATION FARM AT DOBUILEVU RESEARCH STATION PHASE I
Cabinet approved the Grant Agreement with the Government of Indonesia for the provision of Indonesian Rupiah-Rp.60.107.538.227 (approximately FJD 8.4 million) grant funding assistance for phase I of the project on the development of the regional training centre and demonstration farm at Dobuilevu Research Station.
The project is the first multi-year Indonesian flagship initiative in the agriculture sector.
The project will commence on the date of execution of the Grant Agreement and will end on 31 December 2025.
METEOROLOGICAL AND HYDROLOGICAL SERVICES BILL 2024
Cabinet endorsed the draft Meteorological and Hydrological Services Bill 2024 (Bill). The Bill will now be finalised for tabling in Parliament.
The Bill seeks to provide for the establishment and functions of the Fiji Meteorological and Hydrological Service (Service), which is currently called the Fiji Meteorological Service.
The Bill also provides for the effective and efficient provision of meteorological and hydrological services that contribute to sustainable economic development, protection of life, livelihoods and property from meteorological and hydrological disasters and hazards.
Currently, there are no written laws governing meteorological and hydrological services in Fiji.
ANTI-DOPING BILL 2024
Cabinet endorsed the draft Anti-Doping Bill 2024 (Bill). The Bill will now be finalised for tabling in Parliament.
The National Anti-Doping Policy (Policy) which was approved by Cabinet in 2023 highlighted the need for establishing a National Anti-Doping Organisation with primary functions and responsibilities to promote clean sport, prevent doping, and ensuring compliance with international anti-doping standards.
The Anti- Doping Bill 2024 (Bill) was formulated to provide the legal framework for the establishment of the National Anti-Doping Organisation and provide it the regulatory framework.
The main objective of the National Anti-Doping Organisation as provided for under the Bill will be to ensure the proper implementation of, and compliance with, the World Anti-Doping Agency Code on creating a more accountable framework which will provide strategic direction, guide, and monitor the development of clean sports in Fiji.
PACIFIC YOUTH MINISTERS MEETING 2024
Cabinet agreed that Fiji host the Pacific Youth Ministers Regional Meeting later this year in collaboration with the Pacific Community. This meeting will be the first for the Youth Ministers in more than a decade and Fiji will be the first to host it. It is anticipated that the Pacific Youth Ministers will discuss proposed priorities for Pacific youth and proposed actions to address these priorities at the regional meeting. The outcome of these discussions will help inform the next Pacific Youth Development Framework.
CORRECTIONS SERVICE (AMENDMENT) BILL 2024
Cabinet endorsed the Corrections Service (Amendment) Bill 2024 for tabling in Parliament.
The Corrections Service Act 2006 (Act) was enacted in 2006 and commenced on 27 June 2008. It repealed the Prisons Act (Cap 86) and established a new framework which provides for inter alia the establishment of the Fiji Corrections Service (Service), the administration of prisons in Fiji, the treatment of prisoners including the remission of their sentences, early release schemes and the discharge of prisoners.
The Bill seeks to amend the Act for:
-better alignment to International Standards Regarding the Treatment of Prisoners;
-establishment of establish necessary bodies within the Service which are crucial to its functions such as the Central Allocation and Classification Board, which classifies and assigns prisoners to a suitable Corrections Centre;
-provide immunity to the Service from civil and criminal liabilities, in the performance of their duties. To be immune from civil or criminal liability, the Service must show that the performance of lawful duties (or the omission of the same) were done so in good faith or with reasonable care, or in the execution of an order that is purported to have been issued by a Judge, Magistrate or any other officer authorised by law; and
-provide for the mandatory medical examination of prisoners prior to them being released for early release programmes.
CHILD JUSTICE BILL 2024 AND CHILD CARE AND PROTECTION BILL 2024
Cabinet endorsed the draft Child Justice Bill 2024 and draft Child Care and Protection Bill 2024 (Bills). The Bills will now be finalised for tabling in Parliament.
The Bills are the outcome of the review of the Juveniles Act 1973 (Act).
The Child Justice Bill replaces the provisions of the Act that deals with children in conflict with the law. It provides a more comprehensive framework for the special treatment of children at all stages of the criminal justice process, from the point of their initial contact with the police through to trial, rehabilitation and reintegration.
The Child Care and Protection Bill 2024 seeks to repeal the provisions of the Act which relate to child protection. The Bill will also be repealing the Child Welfare Act 2010 as it would introduce provisions that would bolster reporting mechanisms in relation to children in need of care and protection.
RATIFICATION OF THE INDO - PACIFIC ECONOMIC FRAMEWORK FOR PROSPERITY AGREEMENTS
Cabinet endorsed the signing of the Indo - Pacific Economic Framework for Prosperity (IPEF) Agreements on Pillar III Clean Economy Agreement, Pillar IV Fair Economy Agreement, and the Overarching IPEF Agreement, subject to parliamentary ratification.
The IPEF Clean Economy Agreement is a largely non-binding economic framework that supports the efforts of IPEF partner countries in achieving their respective climate goals. It aims to accelerate the deployment of clean technologies and facilitate investment.
The IPEF Fair Economy Agreement focuses on preventing and combating corruption, improving tax administration and transparency, and promoting cooperation among partner countries.
The overarching agreement establishes an IPEF Council and Joint Commission.
The IPEF is a regional initiative, launched in May 2022, and is aimed at promoting cooperation, stability, prosperity, development, and peace within the Indo- Pacific region.
The IPEF comprises 14 partners, including Australia, Brunei Darussalam, Fiji, India, Indonesia, Japan, Republic of Korea, Malaysia, New Zealand, Philippines, Singapore, Thailand, the United States, and Viet Nam.
The decisions of Cabinet include the following:
REVITALISATION OF THE SHIPBUILDING SECTOR
Cabinet approved the engagement of the Australian Infrastructure Financing Facility for the Pacific (AIFFP) to facilitate the tender and selection process for a consultant to conduct a feasibility study at a grant of up to AU$1 million for a new shipbuilding facility in Fiji.
The feasibility study will focus on the existing Government Shipyard and a potential site in Lautoka, and recommend the most suitable site for a new shipyard for Fiji.
The engagement of the AIFFP is part of a Memorandum of Understanding between the Government of Australia and the Government of Fiji for port infrastructure and services which includes the development of the shipbuilding sector.
COMMONWEALTH SECRETARIAT CAPACITY - BUILDING WORKSHOP ON TREATY BODY REPORTING AND STRENGTHENING OF NATIONAL MECHANISMS FOR IMPLEMENTATION, REPORTING AND FOLLOW - UP
Cabinet agreed that Fiji host the Commonwealth Secretariat Capacity-Building Workshop on Treaty Body Reporting and Strengthening of National Mechanisms for Implementation, Reporting and Follow-Up (NMIRFs) from 9 - 11 May 2024.
The capacity-building workshop is organised in response to several requests received by the Commonwealth Secretariat from the Pacific member States seeking technical assistance to reduce the backlog of reports to treaty bodies.
It will also discuss the role, mandate and different types of NMIRFs with examples and good practices from the Pacific that Fiji can consider and ultimately adopt as a sustainable way forward of meeting its reporting obligations (in a timely manner) under each human rights treaty and convention.
THE COUNTRY REVIEW REPORT OF FIJI FOR THE UNITED NATIONS CONVENTION AGAINST CORRUPTION
Cabinet endorsed the country review report for Fiji's second cycle of review under United Nations Convention Against Corruption (UNCAC) review mechanism framework.
The report will be submitted to the United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime for publication on its website.
The Review Mechanism is a peer review process supporting States parties to the Convention and the Protocols in the effective implementation of these instruments, as well as helping States parties to identify and substantiate specific needs for technical assistance and promoting international cooperation.
UPDATE ON THE NEW NATIONAL DEVELOPMENT PLAN AND FEEDBACK FROM THE NATIONWIDE CONSULTATIONS
Cabinet was provided with an update on the consultations undertaken for the development of the new National Development Plan (NDP).
Nationwide public consultations were conducted all across four divisions from 14 February till the end of March 2024 with around 330 meetings covering a population of more than 21,000 people. Additionally, a total of 128 written submissions have been received from the general public through email, post and office visitation.
Based on the feedback and to resolve the basic issues on the ground that affect people's lives daily, the new NDP will be guided by the concept/theme of "getting the basics right", especially within the 3-year period, which will focus on enhancing the provision of necessities that can tangibly improve the quality of life of ordinary Fijians. The draft NDP is expected to be submitted to Cabinet by the end of next month.
FIJI SPARTAN TRIFECTA 2023 - POST EVENT REPORT
Cabinet was updated on the inaugural Fiji Spartan Trifecta post event report. The Event took place from 9 to 12 November 2023 in Sabeto, Nadi.
The Event saw a total of 25 countries represented with over 3,370 attendees of which 65 percent were international participants. With the success of the inaugural Event, it is anticipated that interest from more international participants will increase for future Events.
The tournament is also expected to grow into a self-sustaining event securing increased private-sector sponsorship.
NATIONAL SUSTAINABLE TOURISM FRAMEWORK
Cabinet endorsed Fiji's National Sustainable Tourism Framework (NSTF 2024 - 2034). The NSTF presents the collective vision and goals of the Fijian tourism industry.
It outlines the overarching vision of transforming the sector to ensure a sustainable future that has the economic and social wellbeing of our people, our ocean, our environment, and our culture at its heart.
The NSTF Implementation Committee will be the consultative mechanism and executive arm for the implementation of the NSTF and shall be Chaired by the Permanent Secretary for Tourism and Civil Aviation.
POLICY FRAMEWORK FOR SIGNIFICANT INVESTMENTS IN FIJI
Cabinet approved the Policy Framework for Significant Investments for Fiji. With a focus on enhancing economic development, sustainability, and social impact, this Policy Framework will serve as a strategic roadmap to attract investments across critical sectors capable of significantly influencing Fiji's economy and infrastructure development.
It aims to overcome the challenges faced by investors in Fiji which include uncertainties surrounding regulations, limited access to financing, environmental compliance issues, and social impact considerations highlighted by previous investment projects in the country.
INCREASE IN GRAVEL AND SAND ROYALTIES AND RECOMPENSE FOR THE LOSS OF FISHING RIGHTS
Cabinet approved new royalty rates to be charged by the Department of Lands, on gravel, sand, soil, common stones, soap stones, lime or other similar materials extracted (Gravel and Sand Royalty Rates).
Current rates were set in 1997 and are only for Sand and Gravel at $2.00 per cubic meter and Sand sold from drainage and irrigation dump sites at $4.00 per cubic meter.
The new rates outlined in the table below, are aligned to the rates charged by the iTaukei Lands Trust Board (iTLTB):
DEVELOPMENT OF NATIONAL LABOUR MOBILITY POLICY FRAMEWORK AND STRATEGY FOR SUSTAINABLE DEVELOPMENT AND CLIMATE RESILIENCE IN FIJI
Cabinet approved the development of a National Labour Mobility Policy Framework and Strategy for Sustainable Development and Climate Resilience in Fiji.
The policy framework will be developed through technical assistance from the International Organisation for Migration (IOM).
INTRODUCTION OF NEW GENETIC LINE OF FRESHWATER PRAWN BROODSTOCK
Cabinet approved the introduction of new freshwater prawn, Macrobrachium Rosenbergii (M. rosenbergii ), broodstock genetic line, with the assistance of the Pacific Community.
The freshwater aquaculture project aims to support freshwater prawn farmers through comprehensive assistance, including seed supply, technical guidance, advisory services, and monitoring initiatives, however, growth in the freshwater prawns in the Pacific region has occurred more slowly than expected.
The current genetic stock of M. rosenbergii is now 16 years old requires the introduction of a new genetic line of giant freshwater prawns to ensure the overall health and resilience of the prawn population.
The infusion of this new genetic line is anticipated to significantly boost the production rates of freshwater prawns, promoting sustainability and economic viability in Fiji's aquaculture sector.
JAPAN FUNDING FOR A FISH RESEARCH VESSEL AND ICE-MAKING MACHINES
Cabinet approved the Exchange of Notes and related documents with the Government of Japan for grant aid of approximately 10 million Fijian Dollars for a fish research vessel and ice-making machines.
This financial support underscores the importance of enhancing Fiji's fisheries infrastructure and capacity, aligning with broader bilateral cooperation efforts between Japan and Fiji.
The fish research vessel will be used to conduct fish stock assessments to evaluate the health of local fisheries, evaluating the marine environment for conservation and management purposes, providing training on various fishing techniques to enhance skills and promote sustainability, and serving as a collection point for fisheries products from fisherfolk, women, youth groups, and cooperatives.
The ice-making machines will be for the Labasa Fisheries Station to cater for increase in demand for ice from fisherfolks in the Northern Division.
DEVELOPMENT OF A NATIONAL LAND COVER CHANGE MAPPING SYSTEM FOR FIJI
Cabinet approved the development of a comprehensive National Land Cover Change Mapping System for Fiji.
Currently, different ministries provide data using varying methodologies, leading to inconsistencies and challenges in reporting.
To address this issue, the Fiji Geospatial Information Management Council (FGIMC) has established a National Land Cover Change Mapping Working Group (NLCMWG) tasked with developing and implementing a standardised national land cover change mapping system.
A comprehensive and consistent land cover and land cover change mapping system is crucial for accurate reporting under international agreements and for informed decision-making at the national level.
The proposed system will contribute to tracking progress on several SDGs, particularly those related to environment, climate change, and land cover.
REMODELLING OF PUBLIC WORKS DEPARTMENT FOR RURAL ROADS AND RURAL WATER CONSTRUCTION AND MAINTENANCE IN FIJI
Cabinet approved the remodelling of the Public Works Department (PWD) within the Ministry of Public Works, Meteorological Services and Transport to effectively manage infrastructure development in the rural areas.
This will include construction and maintenance of rural roads, water and sanitation, energy, as well as the construction and maintenance of all government buildings and government quarters.
The PWD has historically played a pivotal role in the development and maintenance of infrastructure throughout the nation. However, over the years, as a result of implementing the public sector reform, the PWD has faced challenges that led to its diminished capacity and effectiveness.
Centralising responsibility for rural infrastructure under the PWD will allow for a more integrated, better coordinated, and holistic approach to rural infrastructure development and maintenance.
DIRECT FUNDING ARRANGEMENT BETWEEN THE GOVERNMENT OF AUSTRALIA AND THE GOVERNMENT OF THE REPUBLIC OF FIJI IN RELATION TO BUDGET SUPPORT PROGRAMME
Cabinet approved grant funding support pledged by the Australian Government in the sum of AUD58 million (grant) as general budget support for fiscal year (FY) 2023/2024.
The overall goal of the grant provided by the Australian Government is to provide financial support to the Fiji Government in achieving economic and fiscal reforms as agreed to by the development partners.
The key reform areas include contributing to more effective and accountable Public Financial Management, and contributing to economic reforms for enhanced recovery and resilience.
GRANT AGREEMENT WITH THE GOVERNMENT OF THE REPUBLIC OF INDONESIA ON THE DEVELOPMENT OF THE REGIONAL TRAINING CENTER AND DEMONSTRATION FARM AT DOBUILEVU RESEARCH STATION PHASE I
Cabinet approved the Grant Agreement with the Government of Indonesia for the provision of Indonesian Rupiah-Rp.60.107.538.227 (approximately FJD 8.4 million) grant funding assistance for phase I of the project on the development of the regional training centre and demonstration farm at Dobuilevu Research Station.
The project is the first multi-year Indonesian flagship initiative in the agriculture sector.
The project will commence on the date of execution of the Grant Agreement and will end on 31 December 2025.
METEOROLOGICAL AND HYDROLOGICAL SERVICES BILL 2024
Cabinet endorsed the draft Meteorological and Hydrological Services Bill 2024 (Bill). The Bill will now be finalised for tabling in Parliament.
The Bill seeks to provide for the establishment and functions of the Fiji Meteorological and Hydrological Service (Service), which is currently called the Fiji Meteorological Service.
The Bill also provides for the effective and efficient provision of meteorological and hydrological services that contribute to sustainable economic development, protection of life, livelihoods and property from meteorological and hydrological disasters and hazards.
Currently, there are no written laws governing meteorological and hydrological services in Fiji.
ANTI-DOPING BILL 2024
Cabinet endorsed the draft Anti-Doping Bill 2024 (Bill). The Bill will now be finalised for tabling in Parliament.
The National Anti-Doping Policy (Policy) which was approved by Cabinet in 2023 highlighted the need for establishing a National Anti-Doping Organisation with primary functions and responsibilities to promote clean sport, prevent doping, and ensuring compliance with international anti-doping standards.
The Anti- Doping Bill 2024 (Bill) was formulated to provide the legal framework for the establishment of the National Anti-Doping Organisation and provide it the regulatory framework.
The main objective of the National Anti-Doping Organisation as provided for under the Bill will be to ensure the proper implementation of, and compliance with, the World Anti-Doping Agency Code on creating a more accountable framework which will provide strategic direction, guide, and monitor the development of clean sports in Fiji.
PACIFIC YOUTH MINISTERS MEETING 2024
Cabinet agreed that Fiji host the Pacific Youth Ministers Regional Meeting later this year in collaboration with the Pacific Community. This meeting will be the first for the Youth Ministers in more than a decade and Fiji will be the first to host it. It is anticipated that the Pacific Youth Ministers will discuss proposed priorities for Pacific youth and proposed actions to address these priorities at the regional meeting. The outcome of these discussions will help inform the next Pacific Youth Development Framework.
CORRECTIONS SERVICE (AMENDMENT) BILL 2024
Cabinet endorsed the Corrections Service (Amendment) Bill 2024 for tabling in Parliament.
The Corrections Service Act 2006 (Act) was enacted in 2006 and commenced on 27 June 2008. It repealed the Prisons Act (Cap 86) and established a new framework which provides for inter alia the establishment of the Fiji Corrections Service (Service), the administration of prisons in Fiji, the treatment of prisoners including the remission of their sentences, early release schemes and the discharge of prisoners.
The Bill seeks to amend the Act for:
-better alignment to International Standards Regarding the Treatment of Prisoners;
-establishment of establish necessary bodies within the Service which are crucial to its functions such as the Central Allocation and Classification Board, which classifies and assigns prisoners to a suitable Corrections Centre;
-provide immunity to the Service from civil and criminal liabilities, in the performance of their duties. To be immune from civil or criminal liability, the Service must show that the performance of lawful duties (or the omission of the same) were done so in good faith or with reasonable care, or in the execution of an order that is purported to have been issued by a Judge, Magistrate or any other officer authorised by law; and
-provide for the mandatory medical examination of prisoners prior to them being released for early release programmes.
CHILD JUSTICE BILL 2024 AND CHILD CARE AND PROTECTION BILL 2024
Cabinet endorsed the draft Child Justice Bill 2024 and draft Child Care and Protection Bill 2024 (Bills). The Bills will now be finalised for tabling in Parliament.
The Bills are the outcome of the review of the Juveniles Act 1973 (Act).
The Child Justice Bill replaces the provisions of the Act that deals with children in conflict with the law. It provides a more comprehensive framework for the special treatment of children at all stages of the criminal justice process, from the point of their initial contact with the police through to trial, rehabilitation and reintegration.
The Child Care and Protection Bill 2024 seeks to repeal the provisions of the Act which relate to child protection. The Bill will also be repealing the Child Welfare Act 2010 as it would introduce provisions that would bolster reporting mechanisms in relation to children in need of care and protection.
RATIFICATION OF THE INDO - PACIFIC ECONOMIC FRAMEWORK FOR PROSPERITY AGREEMENTS
Cabinet endorsed the signing of the Indo - Pacific Economic Framework for Prosperity (IPEF) Agreements on Pillar III Clean Economy Agreement, Pillar IV Fair Economy Agreement, and the Overarching IPEF Agreement, subject to parliamentary ratification.
The IPEF Clean Economy Agreement is a largely non-binding economic framework that supports the efforts of IPEF partner countries in achieving their respective climate goals. It aims to accelerate the deployment of clean technologies and facilitate investment.
The IPEF Fair Economy Agreement focuses on preventing and combating corruption, improving tax administration and transparency, and promoting cooperation among partner countries.
The overarching agreement establishes an IPEF Council and Joint Commission.
The IPEF is a regional initiative, launched in May 2022, and is aimed at promoting cooperation, stability, prosperity, development, and peace within the Indo- Pacific region.
The IPEF comprises 14 partners, including Australia, Brunei Darussalam, Fiji, India, Indonesia, Japan, Republic of Korea, Malaysia, New Zealand, Philippines, Singapore, Thailand, the United States, and Viet Nam.