Government vehicle drivers have been cautioned against leaving engines running unnecessarily, following concerns that some drivers kept vehicles idling for more than an hour while waiting for government officials.
fijivillage News had observed last Thursday that drivers were sitting or sleeping inside their vehicle with vehicles on idle outside the Office of the Prime Minister.
While responding to questions, Permanent Secretary for Finance Shiri Goundar says they will reissue the government circular on this to all Ministries and drivers will be cautioned.
fijivillage News noted yesterday afternoon that the vehicle engines were off while the drivers waited for their respective government officials.
Goundar says as per Government Transport Policy, drivers must switch off ignition and remove the keys when waiting for staff or when the vehicle is parked.
He says drivers are not allowed to keep the engine running as Ministries should provide a space for their drivers to be accommodated after dropping off the officers.
The Permanent Secretary says that for instance, during the Parliament meeting, the Parliament Office with the Ministry of Works has provided a tent with chairs to accommodate drivers for Cabinet Ministers.
He stresses the Ministry of Finance always provides Ministries with the GPS tracking report on a daily basis to monitor and take action against drivers who are always parked idling with the engine on.
Goundar adds respective Ministries are required to monitor this and caution drivers and take any other appropriate action.
