Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for Finance Professor Prasad says the increase of about $345,000 to $2.39 million for personal emoluments for the Office of the Prime Minister is to cater for new positions and civil service pay increase.
He highlighted this during the Committee of Supply session in parliament for the 2025/2026 National Budget while replying to Leader of the Opposition Inia Seruiratu’s question.
Seruiratu says he understands that Information and Veteran Affairs are now separate from the Office of the Prime Minister.
Professor Prasad says these additional funds are for the creation of new positions such as Senior Secretary for the Assistant Minister and the 3 percent salary increase.
Seruiratu also questioned the increase in travel allowance of the President where Professor Prasad says the increase in $160,000 is aligned to the expenditure trend and VAT adjustments.
Professor Prasad says the cost of travelling has also increased and the President, as Commander in Chief, also visits Fijian peacekeepers abroad.
Seruiratu also questioned Professor Prasad on the progress of the maintenance of the administration block at the State House, and whether it is a heritage building.
Professor Prasad says construction is being done by Public Works Department and it is planned to be completed by this year.
He says the State House washroom, engine room, back gate, Ground Zero, quarters 16, 10A, and 10B, Valekau Common Room and quarters 3, Tavakubu perimeter access, and golf green backfilling have been completed.
He says these structures are very old, having been constructed in 1908 and 1903, and over the years, wear and tear has resulted in a severely dilapidated state for some of the building’s structural components.
The Deputy Prime Minister confirms it is a heritage building, which means the restoration work must be carried out with great care.
