Ro Filipe says shortage of skilled workers affecting electricity connection works

One reason electricity connection works have not been carried out in some areas is due to a loss of skilled workers and manpower according to Minister for Public Works, Ro Filipe Tuisawau.

This follows concerns raised by a resident of Itotoko Settlement in Ba during the Fijian Media Association Meet the Public and the Press town hall event, where Tavaita Sarogo highlighted the ongoing need for electricity connections that have been requested multiple times without any progress.

Sarogo says they have submitted their applications to Nasilivata House but have not received any updates.

Ro Filipe says another challenge they are facing is the lack of a proper procurement process, as most of the materials need to be sourced from overseas.

He also highlighted that some issues involve contractors and their ability to deliver sufficient and effective performance on their contracts.

Meanwhile, a representative from the EFL stated that all applications with them have been assessed and surveyed, and their plan is for all these applications to be implemented within this financial year.