Quarters Reform to Rake in $4.2million

Sai's Comments:

• I am generally supportive of this move as I had in fact argued some years back in one of my letters to the Fiji Times. The issue this time is one of timing given the current climate and situation for public servants in Fiji. With the various changes and turmoil in the public service and the uncertain political environment, it seem unwise and unproductive to be carrying out this reform. Alternatively, it should be phased in over a much longer period to enable those affected to make the necessary changes. No wonder there has been objections in some quarters about it.

• Sadly the move seem motivated more by financial considerations given the dire state of government coffers, than a carefully thought out strategy. This in turn could impact on the effectiveness and productivity of government workers. It also makes sense to continue providing quarters to workers outside of the main centres as an incentive and trade off for much needed personnel, and with suitable recognition built into allowances.

www.fijilive.com - January 20, 2010

Reforms in the management of Government quarters are expected to rake in $5.6m compared to the existing revenue of $1.4m, it has been confirmed.

Permanent Secretary for the Public Service, Parmesh Chand said major developments in the reform are the rental of Government quarters at market rates to both civil servants and others and this will be confined to Suva at this stage. “We will begin this process firstly through rental at market rates of the Government Quarters which are currently vacant or are undergoing renovations in Suva.” With twelve quarters in Suva chosen to pilot the reform, Chand said renovation work is almost completed and some are ready for occupation.

However , Chand clarified there will be no change in the meantime in tenancy arrangements for properties rented in districts from private landlords to house eligible civil servants.

He added there will be further consultations with relevant stakeholders before any changes are effected in private homes rented by government.

There are currently 424 privately rented properties Fiji wide for housing civil servants in the Districts in addition to existing government quarters.

Chand said Government has additionally decided that Borron House and VIP House at Berkeley Crescent be made available for hiring out on commercial basis at times when such properties are not required by Government.