Veterans could receive increased monthly allowances in the next national Budget, with Defence Minister and Minister for Veterans Affairs Pio Tikoduadua saying the Government recognises their sacrifices and believes they deserve better support.
Speaking during the Remembrance Day commemoration, Tikoduadua says the day marks the end of the First World War and honours the sacrifices of men and women in uniform, as well as civilians who contributed to the war effort.
He says people today enjoy the lives they have because of the sacrifices made by those who served during the war.
Tikoduadua says the Government would ideally like to increase the allowances paid to former service personnel because they deserve it.
He says any increase will depend on budget allocations and he is hopeful the next national budget will consider providing additional support.
The Minister also says there is hope that benefits under the Vuvale Partnership with Australia will help recognise the service and sacrifices of Fiji's veterans.
However, he says there is currently no confirmed timeline for this support.
Prime Minister Sitiveni Rabuka also acknowledge the contribution of veterans and their families, saying they have built a strong reputation for Fiji's serving personnel and all the country's forces.
Rabuka says Fiji owes it to them to maintain the standards they have established.
On calls for increased monthly allowances and benefits, the Prime Minister says the matter will be left to the relevant ministers, including those responsible for Home Affairs and Veterans Affairs.
He says he would also like to study how veterans' associations in other countries support former service personnel.
Rabuka says some countries have moved away from relying mainly on cash pensions and have instead focused more on aftercare, including dedicated hospitals and welfare services.
He says funding in those countries is directed towards ensuring veterans receive proper care from trained professionals.
Both leaders say veterans' sacrifices should be recognised, with the government considering ways to improve the support available to former service personnel.
