Prime Minister Voreqe Bainimarama says the government has prioritised sports development and has contributed an average of $7.7 million over the years through National Budgets.
While speaking during the debate on the Report on Annual Review of the Fiji Association of Sports and National Olympic Committee 2017, Bainimarama says these investments have also generated economic spin-offs for the country.
Bainimarama says the contribution to the economy has been through remittances from people in sporting activities which is approximately $18.4 million annually and sports grants from overseas stood at $10.3 million. He says the contribution to Fiji’s foreign reserves has been approximately $28.7 million.
Bainimarama says the government contribution in hosting last year’s Super Rugby match in Suva was $2 million which generated an economic return including broadcasting of $19 million.
He says this signifies that investment in sports is not wasted funds but an investment that generates positive economic returns.
Meanwhile, National Federation Party’s MP, Lenora Qereqeretabua says boxing and rugby league need more finances.
Qereqeretabua says boxing has proudly represented Fiji in the Rio Olympics and she is hoping that FASANOC will receive more funds in the next National Budget for engaging volunteers for sports and to address lack of finances for minor sports.
