President Ratu Wiliame Katonivere says the government is drafting plans for the revival of medical and hospital services by improving and maintaining facilities, services, and skills training in patient care.
While opening the new parliament session this morning, Ratu Wiliame says functional divisional command centres will be strengthened in terms of service delivery and coordination of grassroots health programs.
He says the emphasis will be given to better access to electricity, connectivity and water.
The President says community engagement and ownership are seen as key to attaining better health services coverage.
Ratu Wiliame adds there will be a particular emphasis on improving services at divisional and sub-divisional hospitals.
He says effectively managing the diabetes crisis is a priority of the government, as well as dealing with the prevalence of other non-communicable diseases.
The President says this ailment accounts for 85% of all the deaths in Fiji.
Meanwhile, Ratu Wiliame also stated the media legislation will be reviewed to strengthen freedom of the press and the people’s right to information. He says the Government is taking a strong position on this, along with respect for civil rights and freedoms.
He also stated that an announcement will be made soon of two new public holidays.
The President says this includes a public holiday to commemorate the arrival in Fiji in 1879 of the Girmitiyas whose descendants are an integral part of our nation.
He adds a national holiday marking the life and achievements of Ratu Sir Lala Sukuna will be gazetted.
