Islanders in the Lau Group have requested that Government services offered in their communities be upgraded to accommodate the increasing population.
This was highlighted by the traditional leader of Moce Island, Na Turaga Na Ramasi Ului Waqalevu Latu, during the National Development Plan public consultation held at the Delaimakotu Community Hall.
Latu says the island currently has a population of more than 500 Fijians but does not have a Health Centre or a Police Post.
He says while they greatly appreciate the service provided by the Nurses in the nursing station on the island, it needed to be upgraded to a Health Centre, which would guarantee the presence of a medical officer.
Latu adds this would ensure they could acquire the services needed from a medical officer instead of having to travel by fibre-glass boat to Lakeba Island for two hours, which would sometimes prove difficult, especially during bad weather.
The traditional leader says there is a need for Police presence in maritime communities where the population is high to help ensure law and order.
Other issues raised included the need for a tower to improve communication and the construction of a jetty on the island.
Latu says they were grateful to the coalition government for the opportunity to have their voices heard in the National Development Plan consultation.
The Ministry of Health outreach team also delivered basic health services and awareness on Moce Island.
