MCS PROMOTES FELT FRAMEWORK IN THE NORTH

TAVEUNI – A team from the Ministry of Civil Service travelled to Labasa and Taveuni this week to meet and discuss the Framework on Engaging Local Tradesmen/Women (FELT).

The meeting marks a significant step towards leveraging local technical expertise in rural areas and outer islands and revitalise rural economies and empower local communities.

Permanent Secretary for Civil Service Mr. Parmesh Chand stated that the Ministry received $70,000 support in the 2024 – 2025 National Budget for the FELT Framework which he hopes will be piloted in the Northern Division.

“This means that each division will have the opportunity to carry out repair works and maintenance on Government Offices, quarters and depots in rural and maritime areas that are often neglected because of logistical challenges,” Chand said.

The MCS team led by the Deputy Secretary for Civil Service Mr.Samuela Moce met with the Provincial Administrator Mr. Revoni Rakasalu on Wednesday (02/10/2024) and the Divisional Officer Taveuni Mr.Apisai Vularika together with the Roko Tui Taveuni Mr.Aloesi Rasaciva on Thursday (02/10/2024).

DS Moce also hosted an information session on the FELT Framework for several community leaders from villages and settlements on Taveuni Island.

“FELT will not only help elevate the physical appearance of Government premises but it will also economically empower skilled Fijians living in some of the most remote parts of Fiji by providing much needed jobs and therefore boosting the rural economy,” Mr.Moce said.

The FELT Framework provides cost effective ways to undertake repairs and maintenance works on Government Offices, quarters and depots in rural and maritime areas.

The Divisional Commissioner North Mr.Uraia Nainima will be the Chair of the FELT Committee in the North that will be overseeing the selection of tradesmen/women, develop work plans, and monitor project implementation to ensure transparency and accountability.

“The meeting today was informative, and it helped us identify the repairment needs for Government Offices in the North and establish benefits under the FELT Framework,” Mr Rainima said.

FELT is designed to streamline the process for Ministries and Departments by easing compliance requirements and facilitating direct engagement.

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