Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for Finance, Professor Biman Prasad says there is abuse within the social welfare system, and while it involves taxpayers’ money that must be carefully monitored, the government is also focused on protecting the vulnerable.
He commented on fijivillage Straight Talk with Vijay Narayan when asked how the increase in social welfare assistance is being monitored and how issues of abuse are being addressed.
Professor Prasad highlighted that the government increased social welfare allowances in the 2023–2024 National Budget with other support measures such as the Back-to-School initiative and price support for different sectors to help raise people’s income.
He stresses that abuse of the system exists and urges people not to misuse services meant for those genuinely in need to ensure that support reaches the right people, through a range of schemes under the social welfare category, including disability allowance, family income support and social pension.
Professor Prasad says that the 5 percent increase in monthly allowances for all social welfare recipients and government pensioners will make a significant difference.
He also confirmed that the Ministry of Social Protection is actively working to address loopholes that allow abuse of the system.
On the growing concern over HIV and drug-related problems, Professor Prasad says the HIV epidemic has become a serious issue, especially with the increasing number of cases linked to injectable drug use.
He stresses that Fiji had not seen comprehensive awareness campaigns for years and by the time the coalition government took office the situation had become a real threat.
The Deputy Prime Minister says the government has now allocated $10 million in the new budget to fight HIV/AIDS, a significant increase from the $100,000 to $150,000 that was previously allocated in budgets.
Professor Prasad says this reflects how seriously the government is taking the issue and highlights the need for urgent, coordinated action through education, testing and targeted interventions.
He further says the government is focusing on three key areas increasing funding for HIV/AIDS programs, establishing a Narcotics Bureau, and investing in border control measures for the Fiji Revenue and Customs Service to help curb drug trafficking.
Professor Prasad further says that government is “putting its money where its mouth is.”
Professor Prasad criticised the Opposition, saying many of those now raising concerns about the budget deficit had previously ignored these serious problems.
He adds that the coalition government is taking decisive action and sending a strong message through its focused investment and commitment to addressing these challenges.
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