NATION

Rehab Work From Ministry Of Fisheries And Forests Starts In Vanuabalavu

The Ministry of Fisheries and Forests started their rehabilitation programmes in Vanuabalavu, Lau, with the handing over of four fibreglass boats, outboard engines and a portable sawmill. Speaking during the
23 Jun 2016 08:51
Rehab Work From Ministry Of Fisheries And Forests Starts In Vanuabalavu
Minister for Fisheries and Forests Osea Naiqamu, (front right), with Lomaloma District rep Laveti Saurara and fisheries officials in Vanuabalavu. Photo: Ministry of Fisheries and Forests

The Ministry of Fisheries and Forests started their rehabilitation programmes in Vanuabalavu, Lau, with the handing over of four fibreglass boats, outboard engines and a portable sawmill.

Speaking during the hand-over ceremony last Saturday, at Lomaloma Village, Minister for Fisheries and Forests Osea Naiqamu, said during the rehabilitation phase after Tropical Cyclone Winston, the ministry would do its best to help the island fishers and villagers get back on their feet.

“My ministry is committed to helping you so that you are able to get back on your feet and perform your everyday duties. Be rest assured that more assistance is on the way and we hope that you will utilise all resources and assistance given to you,” Mr Naiqamu said.

Lomaloma district representative Laveti Saurara welcomed the assistance.

“We are grateful to Government for their continued support towards the people of Vanuabalavu and we are slowly picking up the pieces of our lives after the horrific ordeal that we went through. Assistance such as these will certainly boost the morale of our communities here on the island,” he said.

The fibreglass boats and engines cost Government at least $35,000.

More assistance in the form of fishing gear will be distributed soon to the rural and maritime islands and affected areas in the Central and Western divisions.

This will be in collaboration with the Food and Agriculture Organisation and the Ministry of Fisheries and Forests.

Source: Ministry of Fisheries and Forests

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