NFA seeks extension of fire service boundaries

The National Fire Authority (NFA) has applied for an extension of its legislated service boundaries to formally cover fire incidents outside municipal areas, as fire outbreaks continue to rise in rural and peri-urban communities across Fiji.

Speaking before the Parliamentary Standing Committee on Social Affairs, Acting NFA Chief Executive Officer Joel Israel confirmed that a Cabinet paper seeking approval to extend fire boundaries nationwide is currently with the responsible ministry and is expected to be tabled soon.

Although the NFA is legally mandated to respond only to fires within municipal boundaries, Israel says the Authority continues to attend incidents outside these areas in the interest of public safety.

As part of its submission on the 2017 Annual Report, the NFA outlined its strategic performance over the past five years, achieving an overall completion rate of 73.17 percent under its Corporate Operational Plan (COOP).

Israel says completion rates peaked at 91 percent in 2022–2023, before declining to 68 percent in the 2024–2025 financial year.

Israel also presented five-year fire statistics showing a significant increase in fire incidents occurring outside municipal boundaries.

He attributed the rise to weak policy enforcement and expanding settlements beyond regulated areas.

Committee members sought clarification on the Authority’s responsibilities, noting the growing number of communities located outside municipal limits.

Standing Committee member Viam Pillay acknowledged the NFA’s continued response to rural fires, despite the lack of legislative obligation.

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Committee Chair Iliesa Vanawalu also questioned whether the NFA’s legislation and budget were aligned with the reality of its expanding operational role.

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In response, Israel says the Authority recognises the need for legislative reform and sustainable funding to match its current service delivery.

Meanwhile, NFA Finance Manager Sen Jeet told the committee that under the National Fire Service Act, the Government contributes 25 percent of the Authority’s total annual budget.

Jeet says the provision was applied for the first time last year, but additional funding would be required if the NFA’s mandate is expanded.