Source document: https://docs-lawep.s3.us-east-2.amazonaws.com/1694862023056.pdf (Fiji)
ACRONYMS CAP CITES EIA EMA EPS GEF Gof HCFC HPMP LPO MLF NBSAP NGO NWMS ODS PICs PMU RAC RMU SA SGP SEAP UNCBD UNCCD UNEP UNFCCC WPCU Compliance Assistance Programme Convention on International Trade of Endangered Species of Wild Flora and Fauna Environment Impact Assessment Environment Management Act Endangered and Protected Species Global Environment Facility Government of Fiji Hydrochlorofluorocarbon Hydrochlorofluorocarbon Phase-out Management Plan Litter Prevention Officers Multilateral Fund National Biodiversity Strategy and Action Plan Non-Government Organization National Waste Management Strategy Ozone Depleting Substances Pacific Islands Countries Project Management Unit Refrigeration and Air-Conditioning Resource Management Unit South Asia Small Grants Program South East Asia/Pacific United Nations Convention on Biological Diversity United Nations Convention to Combat Desertification United Nations Environment Programme United Nations Framework on the Convention on Climate Change Waste Management and Pollution Control Unit 3 3 Contents Strategic Direction ................................................................................................................................................. 2 ACRONYMS............................................................................................................................................................ 3 About The Report ................................................................................................................................................... 6 Referral Letter From Permanent Secretary ............................................................................................................ 7 The Year In Review ................................................................................................................................................. 8 1.
Roles And Responsibilities ............................................................................................................................. 9 2.

Organizational Structure ............................................................................................................................. 10 3.

Department Of Local Government .............................................................................................................. 11 3.1.
Department Of Local Government Overview ..................................................................................... 11 3.2.
Major Achievements ........................................................................................................................... 12 3.2.1 3.2.2 3.2.3 3.2.4 3.2.5 3.2.6 Governance ................................................................................................................................ 12 Local Government Administration ............................................................................................. 12 Local Government Forum……………………………………………………………………………………………………….13 Fiji Pageant Contest .................................................................................................................... 13 Girmit Remembrance ................................................................................................................. 14 Centennial Celebration – Sutlej V Last Shipload Of Gimit From British India ............................. 14 3.2.
Capital Project Undertaken ................................................................................................................. 15 4.

DEPARTMENT OF TOWN AND COUNTRY PLANNING ................................................................................... 16 4.1.

4.2.

4.3.
4.2.

4.3.

Town Planning Act Cap 139 ................................................................................................................. 16 Implementation Of Part Of Urban Policy Action Plan (UPAP) ............................................................. 16 Scheme Amendments & Rural Rezoning ............................................................................................. 17 4.4.
Master Plans........................................................................................................................................ 20 4.5.

Government (Capital) Projects And Policy Advice .............................................................................. 20 4.4.
Land And Building Development ......................................................................................................... 20 4.4.5 Major Developments .................................................................................................................. 20 4.5.

4.6.

4.7.

4.8.
Environment Management Unit (EMU) .............................................................................................. 21 Geographical Information System Unit (GIS UNIT) ............................................................................. 21 Subdivision Of Land ............................................................................................................................ 22 Town Planning Fees............................................................................................................................. 23 4.9 New Towns Development Programme ............................................................................................... 24 5 DEPARTMENT OF HOUSING AND SQUATTER SETTLEMENT ........................................................................ 28 5.1 5.2 Establishing And Implementing The National Housing Policy ............................................................. 28 Achievements In Administration Of Government Grant Funds For Housing Programmes ................ 28 5.2.1 5.2.2 5.2.3 5.2.4 5.2.5 Capital Project For Public Rental Board: ..................................................................................... 28 Capital Project For Housing Authority ........................................................................................ 29 Government Grant To Housing Assistance Relief Trust ............................................................. 30 Government Grant To Peoples Community Network ................................................................ 30 First Home Buyers Grant ............................................................................................................ 30 4 4 5.2.6 Fire Victims Assistance Grant ..................................................................................................... 31 5.3 Achievements In Management Of Upgrading Projects ....................................................................... 31 Squatter Settlement ................................................................................................................... 31 Town-Wide Upgrading Programmes .......................................................................................... 32 Citywide Informal Settlement .................................................................................................... 33 Socio-Economic Surveys ............................................................................................................. 34 5.4 Government Grant To Sustainable Income Generation Project ......................................................... 35 6 DEPARTMENT OF ENVIRONMENT ............................................................................................................... 36 6.1 6.2 Finance ............................................................................................................................................... 37 Operations.......................................................................................................................................... 37 Waste Management And Pollution Control ............................................................................... 37 Resource Management Unit....................................................................................................... 38 Environment Impact Assessment ............................................................................................... 38 Ozone Depleting Substance........................................................................................................ 39 Project Management ................................................................................................................. 40 6.3 Staffing ............................................................................................................................................... 40 7 CORPORATE SERVICE DEPARTMENT ........................................................................................................... 41 7.1 Administrative Section ........................................................................................................................ 41 Staffing ....................................................................................................................................... 41 Office Accommodation .............................................................................................................. 42 Vehicles ...................................................................................................................................... 42 Other Activities .......................................................................................................................... 42 Finance Department .................................................................................................................. 42 5.3.1 5.3.2 5.3.3 5.3.4 6.2.1 6.2.2 6.2.3 6.2.4 6.2.5 7.1.1 7.1.2 7.1.3 7.1.4 7.1.5 7.2 Achievements ..................................................................................................................................... 43 8.
AUDITOR GENERALS REPORT ....................................................................................................................... 44 5 Contents Strategic Direction ................................................................................................................................................. 2 ACRONYMS............................................................................................................................................................ 3 About The Report ................................................................................................................................................... 6 Referral Letter From Permanent Secretary ............................................................................................................ 7 The Year In Review ................................................................................................................................................. 8 1.
Roles And Responsibilities ............................................................................................................................. 9 2.

Organizational Structure ............................................................................................................................. 10 3.

Department Of Local Government .............................................................................................................. 11 3.1.
Department Of Local Government Overview ..................................................................................... 11 3.2.
Major Achievements ........................................................................................................................... 12 3.2.1 3.2.2 3.2.3 3.2.4 3.2.5 3.2.6 Governance ................................................................................................................................ 12 Local Government Administration ............................................................................................. 12 Local Government Forum……………………………………………………………………………………………………….13 Fiji Pageant Contest .................................................................................................................... 13 Girmit Remembrance ................................................................................................................. 14 Centennial Celebration – Sutlej V Last Shipload Of Gimit From British India ............................. 14 3.2.
Capital Project Undertaken ................................................................................................................. 15 4.
DEPARTMENT OF TOWN AND COUNTRY PLANNING ................................................................................... 16 Town Planning Act Cap 139 ................................................................................................................. 16 Implementation Of Part Of Urban Policy Action Plan (UPAP) ............................................................. 16 Scheme Amendments & Rural Rezoning ............................................................................................. 17 4.4.
Master Plans........................................................................................................................................ 20 4.5.

Government (Capital) Projects And Policy Advice .............................................................................. 20 4.4.
Land And Building Development ......................................................................................................... 20 4.4.5 Major Developments .................................................................................................................. 20 Environment Management Unit (EMU) .............................................................................................. 21 Geographical Information System Unit (GIS UNIT) ............................................................................. 21 Subdivision Of Land ............................................................................................................................ 22 Town Planning Fees............................................................................................................................. 23 4.9 New Towns Development Programme ............................................................................................... 24 5 DEPARTMENT OF HOUSING AND SQUATTER SETTLEMENT ........................................................................ 28 Establishing And Implementing The National Housing Policy ............................................................. 28 Achievements In Administration Of Government Grant Funds For Housing Programmes ................ 28 Capital Project For Public Rental Board: ..................................................................................... 28 Capital Project For Housing Authority ........................................................................................ 29 Government Grant To Housing Assistance Relief Trust ............................................................. 30 Government Grant To Peoples Community Network ................................................................ 30 First Home Buyers Grant ............................................................................................................ 30 4.1.
4.2.

4.3.

4.5.

4.6.

4.7.

4.8.
5.1 5.2 5.2.1 5.2.2 5.2.3 5.2.4 5.2.5 4 5.2.6 Fire Victims Assistance Grant ..................................................................................................... 31 5.3 Achievements In Management Of Upgrading Projects ....................................................................... 31 5.3.1 5.3.2 5.3.3 5.3.4 Squatter Settlement ................................................................................................................... 31 Town-Wide Upgrading Programmes .......................................................................................... 32 Citywide Informal Settlement .................................................................................................... 33 Socio-Economic Surveys ............................................................................................................. 34 5.4 Government Grant To Sustainable Income Generation Project ......................................................... 35 6 DEPARTMENT OF ENVIRONMENT ............................................................................................................... 36 6.1 6.2 Finance ............................................................................................................................................... 37 Operations.......................................................................................................................................... 37 6.2.1 6.2.2 6.2.3 6.2.4 6.2.5 Waste Management And Pollution Control ............................................................................... 37 Resource Management Unit....................................................................................................... 38 Environment Impact Assessment ............................................................................................... 38 Ozone Depleting Substance........................................................................................................ 39 Project Management ................................................................................................................. 40 6.3 Staffing ............................................................................................................................................... 40 7 CORPORATE SERVICE DEPARTMENT ........................................................................................................... 41 7.1 Administrative Section ........................................................................................................................ 41 7.1.1 7.1.2 7.1.3 7.1.4 7.1.5 Staffing ....................................................................................................................................... 41 Office Accommodation .............................................................................................................. 42 Vehicles ...................................................................................................................................... 42 Other Activities .......................................................................................................................... 42 Finance Department .................................................................................................................. 42 7.2 Achievements ..................................................................................................................................... 43 8.
AUDITOR GENERALS REPORT ....................................................................................................................... 44 5 5 ABOUT THE REPORT This report details our performances and commitments in areas of our focus during the 2016-2017 financial year.

It also attempts to provide data and examples that highlight our progress and describe our approach and achievements.
The Report has been prepared in line with the Financial Management Act and Section 14 of the Amended of the Public Service Act 1999.

This report includes the following:  The Organization Structure in the Office of the Ministry  Outlines the contribution of the respective Department outcomes, outputs, and Key Performance Indicators, and,  Highlights the achievements and results in the Ministry Of Local Government, Housing, and Environment.
REFERRAL LETTER FROM PERMANENT SECRETARY MINISTRY OF LOCAL GOVERNMENT HOUSING AND ENVIRONMENT FFA BUILDING GLADSTONE ROAD SUVA Honorable Parveen Bala Kumar Minister for Local Government Housing and Environment FFA Building Gladstone Road 3rd August 2018.

Suva Dear Sir, In accordance with the Financial Management Act 2004 requirements, I hereby submit for your information and presentation to Parliament, the Annual Report for Ministry of Local Government, Housing and Environment 2016-2017 financial years.
Joshua Wycliffe Permanent Secretary for Local Government, Housing and Environment 66 7 ABOUT THE REPORT financial year.

and achievements.

It also attempts to provide data and examples that highlight our progress and describe our approach The Report has been prepared in line with the Financial Management Act and Section 14 of the Amended of the Public Service Act 1999.
This report includes the following:  The Organization Structure in the Office of the Ministry  Outlines the contribution of the respective Department outcomes, outputs, and Key  Highlights the achievements and results in the Ministry Of Local Government, Housing, and Performance Indicators, and, Environment.
This report details our performances and commitments in areas of our focus during the 2016-2017 REFERRAL LETTER FROM PERMANENT SECRETARY MINISTRY OF LOCAL GOVERNMENT HOUSING AND ENVIRONMENT FFA BUILDING GLADSTONE ROAD SUVA 3rd August 2018.
Honorable Parveen Bala Kumar Minister for Local Government Housing and Environment FFA Building Gladstone Road Suva Dear Sir, In accordance with the Financial Management Act 2004 requirements, I hereby submit for your information and presentation to Parliament, the Annual Report for Ministry of Local Government, Housing and Environment 2016-2017 financial years.
Joshua Wycliffe Permanent Secretary for Local Government, Housing and Environment 6 7 7 THE YEAR IN REVIEW During the 2016-17 reporting period the Ministry of Local Government, Housing and Environment (MLGHE) delivered on key Government priorities to continue to strengthen Fiji’s local government sector, has worked with stakeholders in ensuring affordable housing, and bolster social and economic development.
This year’s annual report highlights the complexity and diversity of the work undertaken by the Ministry as we administer and enforce multiple pieces of legislation.

The Department of Local Government has continued its efforts through multiple projects undertaken during the year to strengthen, modernize and strengthen the economic base in towns and cities and take the lead role in making local communities more disaster resilient.
Apart from consultation on the review of the Local Government Act, the Ministry has also assisted municipal councils in organizing multiple events.

Capital projects worth more than FJD 25M has also being undertaken by the Ministry.
The Department of Town and Country Planning continued its obligation to offer physical planning and land development advice to the overall decision-making process of government and the private sector as well as promote town planning in Fiji, to guide Fiji towards a coordinated growth.

Major achievements include; 284 rezoning application approved, 1923 building permits processed with 1846 approved, and approval of 987 subdivision applications.
The Department of Housing continued administration Government grants to social housing providers such as the Public Rental Board, the Housing Authority, and the Housing Assistance Relief Trust.

Apart from grants, multiple government initiatives were implemented by the department including; $10 million Housing Assistance for First Home Buyers and as of 31 July, 2017 and $3,610,000 was utilized under the First Time Home Buyers Grant.
A total of 436 applicants received grants, of which 150 applicants received a $5,000 grant, and 286 applicants received a $10,000 grant and upgrading of five Squatter Settlement Upgrading Projects in 2016-2017 which benefitted 668 families.

The Department of Environment continued to ensure through enforcement of appropriate legislation that Fiji’s environment is protected and natural resources are managed sustainably.
Major highlights of the department include; completion of the Naboro Landfill Stage 2 Cell 1, distribution of 1,950 compost bins, repatriation of 148 tabua from the NZ Government, processing of 181 CITES permits, and 170 EIA permits, and implementation of GEF Star Fiji R2R Project worth US$7.39m.

These are only some of the Ministry’s achievements, there are many more highlighted in this report that I am very proud of and that would not have been possible without the hard work and dedication of the staff.
I would like to thank all departmental staff for their outstanding contribution over the year.

Delivering excellent outcomes for Fijian communities gives us an extraordinary sense of satisfaction in the work we do, and the Ministry will continue to commit our focus on creating enlivened and successful communities and the economy for all to enjoy.

1.
1.

ROLES AND RESPONSIBILITIES The Ministry is responsible for the formulation and implementation of local government and urban planning policies, housing policies through the integrated program and approach to eradicate poverty.

Its Department of Environment is responsible for the development and implementation of policies for the protection and policing of the environment and its sustainable use.

The Ministry also has responsibilities for the National Fire Authority.
To achieve this, the Ministry defines the core business and responsibilities of each department/unit for 2012 as follows: 1.DEPARTMENT OF LOCAL GOVERNMENT Monitor the performance of local government and the National Fire Authority by providing advice to the Minister in terms of the Local Government Act Cap.

125 and National Fire Act (1995) and support services through the Permanent Secretary.
2.DEPARTMENT OF TOWN AND COUNTRY PLANNING Responsible for the overall administration, planning, and regulating of land use in Fiji through the Town Planning Act Cap 139 and Subdivision of Land Act Cap 140.

3.DEPARTMENT OF HOUSING AND SQUATTER SETTLEMENT Administer the provision of grants to social housing providers (Housing Authority, Public Rental Board, and HART) and the development of National Housing Policy Programmes.

4.
4.

DEPARTMENT OF ENVIRONMENT Formulate, coordinate, and monitor the implementation of Fiji’s national environmental policies, programmes, and legislation to ensure a sustainable environment in accordance with the Ozone Depletion Substances Act 1998, Endangered and Protected Species Act 2002, Environmental Management Act 2005, and Litter Promulgation 2010.
5.CORPORATE SERVICES DEPARTMENT Implementation of policy decisions for the overall administration of the Ministry’s budgeting, planning, financial, and accounting control and managing of human resources.
8 8 9 9 9 THE YEAR IN REVIEW During the 2016-17 reporting period the Ministry of Local Government, Housing and Environment (MLGHE) delivered on key Government priorities to continue to strengthen Fiji’s local government sector, has worked with stakeholders in ensuring affordable housing, and bolster social and economic development.

This year’s annual report highlights the complexity and diversity of the work undertaken by the Ministry as we administer and enforce multiple pieces of legislation.
The Department of Local Government has continued its efforts through multiple projects undertaken during the year to strengthen, modernize and strengthen the economic base in towns and cities and take the lead role in making local communities more disaster resilient.

Apart from consultation on the review of the Local Government Act, the Ministry has also assisted municipal councils in organizing multiple events.

Capital projects worth more than FJD 25M has also being undertaken by the Ministry.
The Department of Town and Country Planning continued its obligation to offer physical planning and land development advice to the overall decision-making process of government and the private sector as well as promote town planning in Fiji, to guide Fiji towards a coordinated growth.

Major achievements include; 284 rezoning application approved, 1923 building permits processed with 1846 approved, and approval of 987 subdivision applications.
The Department of Housing continued administration Government grants to social housing providers such as the Public Rental Board, the Housing Authority, and the Housing Assistance Relief Trust.

Apart from grants, multiple government initiatives were implemented by the department including; $10 million Housing Assistance for First Home Buyers and as of 31 July, 2017 and $3,610,000 was utilized under the First Time Home Buyers Grant.
A total of 436 applicants received grants, of which 150 applicants received a $5,000 grant, and 286 applicants received a $10,000 grant and upgrading of five Squatter Settlement Upgrading Projects in 2016-2017 which benefitted 668 families.

The Department of Environment continued to ensure through enforcement of appropriate legislation that Fiji’s environment is protected and natural resources are managed sustainably.
Major highlights of the department include; completion of the Naboro Landfill Stage 2 Cell 1, distribution of 1,950 compost bins, repatriation of 148 tabua from the NZ Government, processing of 181 CITES permits, and 170 EIA permits, and implementation of GEF Star Fiji R2R Project worth US$7.39m.

These are only some of the Ministry’s achievements, there are many more highlighted in this report that I am very proud of and that would not have been possible without the hard work and dedication of the staff.
I would like to thank all departmental staff for their outstanding contribution over the year.

Delivering excellent outcomes for Fijian communities gives us an extraordinary sense of satisfaction in the work we do, and the Ministry will continue to commit our focus on creating enlivened and successful communities and the economy for all to enjoy.

1.
1.

ROLES AND RESPONSIBILITIES The Ministry is responsible for the formulation and implementation of local government and urban planning policies, housing policies through the integrated program and approach to eradicate poverty.

Its Department of Environment is responsible for the development and implementation of policies for the protection and policing of the environment and its sustainable use.

The Ministry also has responsibilities for the National Fire Authority.
To achieve this, the Ministry defines the core business and responsibilities of each department/unit for 2012 as follows: 1.DEPARTMENT OF LOCAL GOVERNMENT Monitor the performance of local government and the National Fire Authority by providing advice to the Minister in terms of the Local Government Act Cap.

125 and National Fire Act (1995) and support services through the Permanent Secretary.
2.DEPARTMENT OF TOWN AND COUNTRY PLANNING Responsible for the overall administration, planning, and regulating of land use in Fiji through the Town Planning Act Cap 139 and Subdivision of Land Act Cap 140.

3.DEPARTMENT OF HOUSING AND SQUATTER SETTLEMENT Administer the provision of grants to social housing providers (Housing Authority, Public Rental Board, and HART) and the development of National Housing Policy Programmes.

4.
4.

DEPARTMENT OF ENVIRONMENT Formulate, coordinate, and monitor the implementation of Fiji’s national environmental policies, programmes, and legislation to ensure a sustainable environment in accordance with the Ozone Depletion Substances Act 1998, Endangered and Protected Species Act 2002, Environmental Management Act 2005, and Litter Promulgation 2010.
5.CORPORATE SERVICES DEPARTMENT Implementation of policy decisions for the overall administration of the Ministry’s budgeting, planning, financial, and accounting control and managing of human resources.

8 9 9 9 9 3.

DEPARTMENT OF LOCAL GOVERNMENT The primary responsibility of the Department of Local Government is to improve local governance through the effective implementation of the Local Government Act [Cap.

125].
125].

This is in line with Pillar 4 of the People’s Charter for Change, Peace & Progress - Enhancing Public Sector Efficiency, Performance Effectiveness, and Service Delivery.

The Department is also responsible for the provision of policy advice and support services to the National Fire Authority to ensure the effective delivery of its core services through the National Fire Service Act 1995.
The 6 member team provides leadership policy advice and secretarial support services to management and the thirteen municipal councils and the National Fire Authority in terms of the effective implementation of the Local Government Act [Cap125] and the National Fire Service Act 1995.

Figure 1: Korovou NFA Station Opening by Hon.

Prime Minister 28th October 2016 3.1.


DEPARTMENT OF LOCAL GOVERNMENT OVERVIEW The main focus for the Department of Local Government for the 2016-2017 financial year and beyond is to strengthen, modernize the economic base in towns and cities and take the lead role in making local communities more disaster resilient.
This is in addition to the continued support granted to the National Fire Authority is expanding the number of fire stations around the country and equipping them with the necessary tools to conduct operations.

For the 2016-17 fiscal year, the Department of Local Government was allocated $25m.

1010 11 3.

DEPARTMENT OF LOCAL GOVERNMENT The primary responsibility of the Department of Local Government is to improve local governance through the effective implementation of the Local Government Act [Cap.
125].

This is in line with Pillar 4 of the People’s Charter for Change, Peace & Progress - Enhancing Public Sector Efficiency, Performance Effectiveness, and Service Delivery.

The Department is also responsible for the provision of policy advice and support services to the National Fire Authority to ensure the effective delivery of its core services through the National Fire Service Act 1995.
The 6 member team provides leadership policy advice and secretarial support services to management and the thirteen municipal councils and the National Fire Authority in terms of the effective implementation of the Local Government Act [Cap125] and the National Fire Service Act 1995.

Figure 1: Korovou NFA Station Opening by Hon.

Prime Minister 28th October 2016 3.1.


DEPARTMENT OF LOCAL GOVERNMENT OVERVIEW The main focus for the Department of Local Government for the 2016-2017 financial year and beyond is to strengthen, modernize the economic base in towns and cities and take the lead role in making local communities more disaster resilient.
This is in addition to the continued support granted to the National Fire Authority is expanding the number of fire stations around the country and equipping them with the necessary tools to conduct operations.

For the 2016-17 fiscal year, the Department of Local Government was allocated $25m.
10 11 11 3.2 MAJOR ACHIEVEMENTS b. Nadi Town Boundary Extension Some of the Core activities for the department during the year 2016/17 include: a. b. c. d. e. f. Coordinating Grants and Monitoring progress of Capital Projects undertaken by Municipal Councils and the National Fire Authority.

Carrying out assessments of Municipal Councils operations including Service Delivery Reviews using the approved Green Town Assessment guideline approved by the Ministry in 2013.
Evaluating and recommending to Permanent Secretary for consent on Human Resource, Procurement Matters and on other matters requiring consent before Municipal Councils taking action.

Supporting Municipal Councils in Events Management.

Providing Secretarial Support to the Local Government Committee.

Organizing Municipal Forums.

3.2.1 GOVERNANCE The following activities were carried out for the 2016/17 fiscal year: a.
Leave for Special Administrators and Chief Executive Officers continued to be managed by the Permanent Secretary office.

All official overseas travel was approved by the Permanent Secretary office.

b.

A work plan was developed to progress outstanding Municipal audit works over a threeyear period ending 31st December 2019.
Councils were informed of the Ministry's intention to switch Council fiscal year as that of National Government by 2020. c. An assessment of all Municipal Councils, through the Green Town Assessment, was carried out by the Department under the supervision of the Principal Administrative Secretary.

The assessment included field visitation, meeting with the Council, assessing Council reports and discussing with the Head of Departments challenges they encounter.
Two reports following visitations and assessment was generated by the team.

During the fiscal year, Special Administrators and Chief Executive Officers were assessed and reports tabled.

d. Appointment of National Fire Authority Board members.
3.2.2 LOCAL GOVERNMENT ADMINISTRATION The Department continued to provide the necessary policy support via successful completion of the following: a. Navua Town Declaration The Local Government Committee established under the Local Government Act completed report on the Navua Town declaration and handed it over to the Honourable Minister for Local Government, Housing and Environment.

The Honourable Minister later opened an appeal period in accordance with the Local Government Act Cap.

125.
125.

There was no appeal received.

It was decided that the Town Proclamation will await infrastructure upgrade works that was undertaken by Fiji Roads Authority.

1212 Local Government Committee, following endorsement by the Minister for Local Government, Housing and Environment, commenced work on hearing objections for the proposed Nadi Town boundary extension application during the fiscal year.
c. Consultation on Local Government Act Review and Municipal Operation Local Government Committee visited the 13 Municipal Councils to discuss terms of reference for the Local Government Act Review, proposed Town Boundary Extension and discuss challenges in relation to Municipal operation.

Reports were tabled to the Permanent Secretary for consideration and action.

3.2.3 LOCAL GOVERNMENT FORUM Two such forums were organised during the fiscal year.

These were; a.
These were; a.

In August 2016, a Municipal Local Government Forum was organized.

During the forum the Special Administrators and Chief Executive Officers made presentations in the areas of Governance, Service Delivery and Capital Projects.

Special Administrators and Chief Executive Officers had an opportunity to highlight challenges to the Honourable Minister during the forum.

On the final day external stakeholders were invited.

b.
b.

In December 2016, the 2nd Municipal Local Government Forum was organized.

It followed similar protocol as the 1st forum, with Special Administrators and Chief Executive Officers making presentations in the areas of Governance, Service Delivery and Capital Projects on the progress and issues faced from the 1st presentation.

On the final day of the forum, external stakeholders were invited to speak and discuss issues and find amicable solutions.

An awards night was organized at the end of the Forum.
3.2.4 FIJI PAGEANT CONTEST Department continued to support various Township festival committees.

Fiji Pageant Contest 2016 was organized at Lawaqa Park-Sigatoka and it saw 12 Township 2016 festival queens vying for the title.

The winner Anne Dunn- Miss Hibiscus Suva went on to win the Miss South Pacific Island Pageant contest.
13 3.2 MAJOR ACHIEVEMENTS b. Nadi Town Boundary Extension Some of the Core activities for the department during the year 2016/17 include: Coordinating Grants and Monitoring progress of Capital Projects undertaken by Municipal Councils and the National Fire Authority.
Carrying out assessments of Municipal Councils operations including Service Delivery Reviews using the approved Green Town Assessment guideline approved by the Ministry c. Evaluating and recommending to Permanent Secretary for consent on Human Resource, Procurement Matters and on other matters requiring consent before Municipal Councils in 2013. taking action.

Supporting Municipal Councils in Events Management.

Providing Secretarial Support to the Local Government Committee.

Organizing Municipal Forums.


a. b. d. e. f. 3.2.1 GOVERNANCE The following activities were carried out for the 2016/17 fiscal year: a.

Leave for Special Administrators and Chief Executive Officers continued to be managed by the Permanent Secretary office.

All official overseas travel was approved by the Permanent Secretary office.

b.

A work plan was developed to progress outstanding Municipal audit works over a threeyear period ending 31st December 2019.
Councils were informed of the Ministry's intention to switch Council fiscal year as that of National Government by 2020. c. An assessment of all Municipal Councils, through the Green Town Assessment, was carried out by the Department under the supervision of the Principal Administrative Secretary.

The assessment included field visitation, meeting with the Council, assessing Council reports and discussing with the Head of Departments challenges they encounter.
Two reports following visitations and assessment was generated by the team.

During the fiscal year, Special Administrators and Chief Executive Officers were assessed and reports tabled.

d. Appointment of National Fire Authority Board members.
3.2.2 LOCAL GOVERNMENT ADMINISTRATION The Department continued to provide the necessary policy support via successful completion of the following: a. Navua Town Declaration The Local Government Committee established under the Local Government Act completed report on the Navua Town declaration and handed it over to the Honourable Minister for Local Government, Housing and Environment.

The Honourable Minister later opened an appeal period in accordance with the Local Government Act Cap.

125.
125.

There was no appeal received.

It was decided that the Town Proclamation will await infrastructure upgrade works that was undertaken by Fiji Roads Authority.

12 Local Government Committee, following endorsement by the Minister for Local Government, Housing and Environment, commenced work on hearing objections for the proposed Nadi Town boundary extension application during the fiscal year.
c. Consultation on Local Government Act Review and Municipal Operation Local Government Committee visited the 13 Municipal Councils to discuss terms of reference for the Local Government Act Review, proposed Town Boundary Extension and discuss challenges in relation to Municipal operation.

Reports were tabled to the Permanent Secretary for consideration and action.

3.2.3 LOCAL GOVERNMENT FORUM Two such forums were organised during the fiscal year.

These were; a. b.
These were; a. b.

In August 2016, a Municipal Local Government Forum was organized.

During the forum the Special Administrators and Chief Executive Officers made presentations in the areas of Governance, Service Delivery and Capital Projects.

Special Administrators and Chief Executive Officers had an opportunity to highlight challenges to the Honourable Minister during the forum.

On the final day external stakeholders were invited.
In December 2016, the 2nd Municipal Local Government Forum was organized.

It followed similar protocol as the 1st forum, with Special Administrators and Chief Executive Officers making presentations in the areas of Governance, Service Delivery and Capital Projects on the progress and issues faced from the 1st presentation.

On the final day of the forum, external stakeholders were invited to speak and discuss issues and find amicable solutions.

An awards night was organized at the end of the Forum.
3.2.4 FIJI PAGEANT CONTEST Department continued to support various Township festival committees.

Fiji Pageant Contest 2016 was organized at Lawaqa Park-Sigatoka and it saw 12 Township 2016 festival queens vying for the title.

The winner Anne Dunn- Miss Hibiscus Suva went on to win the Miss South Pacific Island Pageant contest.

13 13 3.2.5 GIRMIT REMEMBRANCE On 14th May, 2017 Ministry in partnership with Municipal Councils organized Girmit Remembrance Day celebration at 11 Town Centres.
Figure 1: Centennial Celebration Sutlej V Last Shipload of Girmit from British India, November 2016 Figure 2: Reception night for Centennial Celebration held at Thurston Garden.

3.2.6 CENTENNIAL CELEBRATION – SUTLEJ V LAST SHIPLOAD OF GIMIT FROM BRITISH INDIA In November, 2016, following Cabinet approval, the Ministry in conjunction with the Municipal Councils on a Public Private Partnership organized the biggest Girmit Remembrance in history across the nation at 13 districts.
The main celebration was at Albert Park, Suva where an estimated 8000 people including school students had gathered to mark the last Ship Sutlej V arrival centennial remembrance.

Chief Guest for the remembrance was His Excellency the President of Fiji.

More than 400 plaques were distributed to Fijian Citizens of Girmit descent over 80 years as a mark of respect.
The main event for the West was held at Girmit Centre Lautoka where close to 2000 people had congregated and speakers included His Excellency High Commissioner of India and Fijian Attorney-General and Minister for Economy.

A similar turnout was recorded at Labasa Civic Auditorium where the Chief Guest was Fijian Attorney-General and Minister for Economy, Hon.

Aiyaz-Sayed Khaiyum.


t c e j o r P 14 14 15 3.2.5 GIRMIT REMEMBRANCE On 14th May, 2017 Ministry in partnership with Municipal Councils organized Girmit Remembrance Day celebration at 11 Town Centres.

Figure 1: Centennial Celebration Sutlej V Last Shipload of Girmit from British India, November 2016 Figure 2: Reception night for Centennial Celebration held at Thurston Garden.
3.2.6 CENTENNIAL CELEBRATION – SUTLEJ V LAST SHIPLOAD OF GIMIT FROM BRITISH INDIA In November, 2016, following Cabinet approval, the Ministry in conjunction with the Municipal Councils on a Public Private Partnership organized the biggest Girmit Remembrance in history across the nation at 13 districts.

The main celebration was at Albert Park, Suva where an estimated 8000 people including school students had gathered to mark the last Ship Sutlej V arrival centennial remembrance.
Chief Guest for the remembrance was His Excellency the President of Fiji.

More than 400 plaques were distributed to Fijian Citizens of Girmit descent over 80 years as a mark of respect.

The main event for the West was held at Girmit Centre Lautoka where close to 2000 people had congregated and speakers included His Excellency High Commissioner of India and Fijian Attorney-General and Minister for Economy.
A similar turnout was recorded at Labasa Civic Auditorium where the Chief Guest was Fijian Attorney-General and Minister for Economy, Hon.

Aiyaz-Sayed Khaiyum.

t c e j o r P 14 15 15 4.


DEPARTMENT OF TOWN AND COUNTRY PLANNING 4.3 SCHEME AMENDMENTS & RURAL REZONING To ensure sustainable development and a coordinated growth the Department of Town and Country Planning (DTCP) is responsible for the overall administration, planning and regulating of land use in Fiji through the Town Planning Act Cap.139 and Subdivision of Land Act Cap.140.
The key functions of DTCP are: (i) Strategic Planning of Urban and Rural Areas (ii) Regulation and Compliance to Development Law DTCP also offer physical planning and land development advice to the overall decision making process of government and the private sector as well as promote town planning in Fiji, to increase its understanding and guide Fiji towards a coordinated growth.
Within these deliverables, the department facilitates two main pillars (Pillars 5 & 6) of the Road Map and People’s Charter for Peace, Change and Pillar 7 being a new inclusion through the preparation of New Town Developments.

4.1.
TOWN PLANNING ACT CAP 139 The Department prepares, revises and amends town planning schemes; prepare local advisory plans of potential growth areas; determine rezoning proposals from rural town planning areas; provide planning advice to town councils, rural local authorities, government authorities and statutory bodies, stakeholders, private sector, the public; provides strategic physical planning for Fiji’s growth in both the urban and rural areas and; Internally provide strategic direction to both Subdivision and Development Control Sections.
For the reporting period for the fiscal year from 1st August 2016 to 31st July 2017 a total of 324 rezoning applications were received and a total of 284 applications were decided.

160 140 120 100 80 60 40 20 0 Central Western Northern Total Rezoning Applications Total Rezoning Applications Received Decided 133 115 145 129 46 40 Total Rezoning Applications Received Total Rezoning Applications Decided 4.2.
IMPLEMENTATION OF PART OF URBAN POLICY ACTION PLAN (UPAP) Figure 3: Status of Rezoning Applications The Ministry through DTCP implemented at least three (3) of the main thematic areas of the Urban Policy Action Plan (2007): I.

Legal and Regulatory Framework The iTaukei Community consultation culminated in 2017 covering 12 out of the 14 provinces.
The information gathered was collated and sent to the office of the Solicitor General together with the 1st Draft of the Town Planning Act & the Subdivision of Lands Act for comments.

From the allocation of $35,000 in the 2016/17 budget only $2, 730 was utilized.

II.

Urban Policy & Action Plan (UPAP) The Greater Western Urban Growth Management Action Plan (GWUGMAP) was completed as a first draft.
However, it was not officially launched as the Government of Fiji through the Ministry of Local Government and the Ministry of Economy had signed on an agreement with the Singapore Corporation Enterprise to prepare the Strategic Spatial Master Plan for Viti Levu and the Concept Master Plan for Greater Suva, Nadi and Lautoka.
From an allocation of $463,517.00 an amount of $354,401.00 had been utilized for the UPAP programme, bulk of the allocation was spent on consultations/workshops with stakeholders on the Greater Western Urban Growth Management Action Plan (GWUGMAP).

1616 17 4.
1616 17 4.

DEPARTMENT OF TOWN AND COUNTRY PLANNING 4.3 SCHEME AMENDMENTS & RURAL REZONING For the reporting period for the fiscal year from 1st August 2016 to 31st July 2017 a total of 324 rezoning applications were received and a total of 284 applications were decided.

160 140 120 100 80 60 40 20 0 Central Western Northern Total Rezoning Applications Received Total Rezoning Applications Decided 133 115 145 129 46 40 4.2.
IMPLEMENTATION OF PART OF URBAN POLICY ACTION PLAN (UPAP) Figure 3: Status of Rezoning Applications Total Rezoning Applications Received Total Rezoning Applications Decided To ensure sustainable development and a coordinated growth the Department of Town and Country Planning (DTCP) is responsible for the overall administration, planning and regulating of land use in Fiji through the Town Planning Act Cap.139 and Subdivision of Land Act Cap.140.
The key functions of DTCP are: (i) Strategic Planning of Urban and Rural Areas (ii) Regulation and Compliance to Development Law DTCP also offer physical planning and land development advice to the overall decision making process of government and the private sector as well as promote town planning in Fiji, to increase its understanding and guide Fiji towards a coordinated growth.
Within these deliverables, the department facilitates two main pillars (Pillars 5 & 6) of the Road Map and People’s Charter for Peace, Change and Pillar 7 being a new inclusion through the preparation of New Town Developments.

4.1.
TOWN PLANNING ACT CAP 139 The Department prepares, revises and amends town planning schemes; prepare local advisory plans of potential growth areas; determine rezoning proposals from rural town planning areas; provide planning advice to town councils, rural local authorities, government authorities and statutory bodies, stakeholders, private sector, the public; provides strategic physical planning for Fiji’s growth in both the urban and rural areas and; Internally provide strategic direction to both Subdivision and Development Control Sections.
The Ministry through DTCP implemented at least three (3) of the main thematic areas of the Urban Policy Action Plan (2007): I.

Legal and Regulatory Framework The iTaukei Community consultation culminated in 2017 covering 12 out of the 14 provinces.

The information gathered was collated and sent to the office of the Solicitor General together with the 1st Draft of the Town Planning Act & the Subdivision of Lands Act for comments.
From the allocation of $35,000 in the 2016/17 budget only $2, 730 was utilized.

II.

Urban Policy & Action Plan (UPAP) The Greater Western Urban Growth Management Action Plan (GWUGMAP) was completed as a first draft.
However, it was not officially launched as the Government of Fiji through the Ministry of Local Government and the Ministry of Economy had signed on an agreement with the Singapore Corporation Enterprise to prepare the Strategic Spatial Master Plan for Viti Levu and the Concept Master Plan for Greater Suva, Nadi and Lautoka.
From an allocation of $463,517.00 an amount of $354,401.00 had been utilized for the UPAP programme, bulk of the allocation was spent on consultations/workshops with stakeholders on the Greater Western Urban Growth Management Action Plan (GWUGMAP).

16 17 17 1818 19 18 19 19 4.4 MASTER PLANS One Master Plan was approved in the Central Division for the year 2017, while they were none received or considered for the Western and Northern Divisions respectively.
4.5 GOVERNMENT (CAPITAL) PROJECTS AND POLICY ADVICE DTCP plays a participative role in providing policy advice to a number of projects undertaken by the government in the 2016/17 fiscal year and this includes the following: i. ii.
Ministry of Health : Health Centre Nalawa Flats Ministry of Health : Hospital Keiyasi 4.6 LAND AND BUILDING DEVELOPMENT Table 2: Building Application Summary for 2016/2017 Building Application Summary For 2016/2017 Division Received Processed Decision Consented to Refused Deferred included: Central Western Northern Total (2015/16) 787 885 321 1993 1098 759 837 327 1923 974 564 728 188 1480 335 56 17 6 79 61 139 92 76 307 145 Out of the 1923 building applications processed, 96% were Approved compared to 88% in the 2015/16 fiscal year, 4% of building applications were Refused in contrast to 6% in the 2015/16 fiscal year and 15% of the applications were Deferred or returned pending further action by applicants.
The Town Planning Compliance Workshops for Architects & Draftsman was held in Suva in the last quarter of 2015/16 to improve submissions of building plans to the Municipal Councils and DTCP for processing.

4.6.1 MAJOR DEVELOPMENTS A total of Eighty-six major development proposals were received for the 2016/17 reporting period with a value of $457,447,309.

A summary of the major developments per division is shown below.
4.8 GEOGRAPHICAL INFORMATION SYSTEM UNIT (GIS UNIT) The Western division continued its dominance as a region where major developments are proposed and mix-use tourism and commercial remain as most highly demanded use or activity.
20 20 Table 3 Major developments received and consented by Divisions in 2016/2017 period Division Total Received Total Processed Value Central Western Northern Total 9 68 9 86 9 68 9 86 $40,900,000.00 $427,347,309.00 $7,2000,000.00 $457,447,309.00 The total value of major building development proposals approved in the 2015/16 period was $163,661,065, compared to $457,447,309 worth of major building development proposals being approved for the current financial year.
As shown in the table above, 100% of these proposals were consented to.

Notable major building development approvals that were granted from 1st August 2016-31st July 2017 Guangdong Silk Road Ark Investments for a Hotel development in Komave, Nadroga Michelley Investment Limited for a Commercial complex along Queens Road Nadi • • worth: $40,000,000 worth: $50,000,000.
4.7 ENVIRONMENT MANAGEMENT UNIT (EMU) The Unit is responsible for its technical advice on foreshore applications as forwarded by the Director of Lands and makes recommendations to the Director of Environment on any EIA as part of its consultation process.

The unit also screens applications for development approvals issued by DTCP and refers them to the Department of Environment with recommendations on the most appropriate environment documents that needs to be furnished.
For the 2016/17 financial year the unit recorded an increase in the number of EIA applications that had been forwarded to DTCP for assessment.

The number had increased to 41 compared to 26 in the 2015/16 financial year.

The Geographical Information System (GIS) and I.T Unit Division is responsible for the production of plans, maps, records and information of DTCP in digitized and electronic format.
The responsibilities of the unit have been extended to services within the Ministry as part of the IT Strategic Plan 2015-2019.

In 2017 the unit has contributed by conducting a 4 day in house training with technical staff on the use of the Arc GIS software for the purpose of creating maps and plans and also plotting of applications received digitally to assist the Department in moving away from manual plotting.
The unit also managed to electronically digitize the zoning of all 13 Town Planning Schemes using the Arc GIS software.

The GIS unit had also managed to assist the Municipal Councils in mapping Mangrove designated areas.

21 4.4 MASTER PLANS One Master Plan was approved in the Central Division for the year 2017, while they were none received or considered for the Western and Northern Divisions respectively.
4.5 GOVERNMENT (CAPITAL) PROJECTS AND POLICY ADVICE DTCP plays a participative role in providing policy advice to a number of projects undertaken by the government in the 2016/17 fiscal year and this includes the following: i. ii.
Ministry of Health : Health Centre Nalawa Flats Ministry of Health : Hospital Keiyasi 4.6 LAND AND BUILDING DEVELOPMENT Table 2: Building Application Summary for 2016/2017 Building Application Summary For 2016/2017 Division Received Processed Decision Central Western Northern Total (2015/16) 787 885 321 1993 1098 Consented to Refused Deferred 564 728 188 1480 335 56 17 6 79 61 139 92 76 307 145 759 837 327 1923 974 Out of the 1923 building applications processed, 96% were Approved compared to 88% in the 2015/16 fiscal year, 4% of building applications were Refused in contrast to 6% in the 2015/16 fiscal year and 15% of the applications were Deferred or returned pending further action by applicants.
The Town Planning Compliance Workshops for Architects & Draftsman was held in Suva in the last quarter of 2015/16 to improve submissions of building plans to the Municipal Councils and DTCP for processing.

4.6.1 MAJOR DEVELOPMENTS The Western division continued its dominance as a region where major developments are proposed and mix-use tourism and commercial remain as most highly demanded use or activity.
20 Table 3 Major developments received and consented by Divisions in 2016/2017 period Division Total Received Total Processed Value Central Western Northern Total 9 68 9 86 9 68 9 86 $40,900,000.00 $427,347,309.00 $7,2000,000.00 $457,447,309.00 The total value of major building development proposals approved in the 2015/16 period was $163,661,065, compared to $457,447,309 worth of major building development proposals being approved for the current financial year.
As shown in the table above, 100% of these proposals were consented to.

Notable major building development approvals that were granted from 1st August 2016-31st July 2017 included: • • Guangdong Silk Road Ark Investments for a Hotel development in Komave, Nadroga worth: $40,000,000 Michelley Investment Limited for a Commercial complex along Queens Road Nadi worth: $50,000,000.
4.7 ENVIRONMENT MANAGEMENT UNIT (EMU) The Unit is responsible for its technical advice on foreshore applications as forwarded by the Director of Lands and makes recommendations to the Director of Environment on any EIA as part of its consultation process.

The unit also screens applications for development approvals issued by DTCP and refers them to the Department of Environment with recommendations on the most appropriate environment documents that needs to be furnished.
For the 2016/17 financial year the unit recorded an increase in the number of EIA applications that had been forwarded to DTCP for assessment.

The number had increased to 41 compared to 26 in the 2015/16 financial year.

A total of Eighty-six major development proposals were received for the 2016/17 reporting period with a value of $457,447,309.

A summary of the major developments per division is shown below.
4.8 GEOGRAPHICAL INFORMATION SYSTEM UNIT (GIS UNIT) The Geographical Information System (GIS) and I.T Unit Division is responsible for the production of plans, maps, records and information of DTCP in digitized and electronic format.

The responsibilities of the unit have been extended to services within the Ministry as part of the IT Strategic Plan 2015-2019.
In 2017 the unit has contributed by conducting a 4 day in house training with technical staff on the use of the Arc GIS software for the purpose of creating maps and plans and also plotting of applications received digitally to assist the Department in moving away from manual plotting.

The unit also managed to electronically digitize the zoning of all 13 Town Planning Schemes using the Arc GIS software.

The GIS unit had also managed to assist the Municipal Councils in mapping Mangrove designated areas.
21 21 4.10 TOWN PLANNING FEES The revenue received by the Department is derived from fees charged under the Town Planning Act Cap 139 and the Subdivision of Land Act Cap 140.

The total fees received for the 2016/17 period are $491,923.52 in contrast to $205,411.49 in the 2015/16 reporting period, this reflects an increasing number of applications and corresponding investment confidence.

A summary is shown in the Table below.


Table 5 Total Fees received Activity Forward Planning Subdivision of Land Development Control TOTAL Revenue $ 43,499.99 $229,959.47 $186,459.48 $506,834.10 4.9 SUBDIVISION OF LAND Table 4: Provides summary on types of applications received and considered by the Subdivision section 2016/2017.
Subdivision Summary For 2017 Application Type Application Received Decisions Approved Refused Deferred New Application 888 757 27 Amended Plans Reconsideration Waiver & Relaxation Extension Of Approval Engineering Plans Survey Plans Total 61 14 5 19 50 333 1370 37 1 3 18 211 1024 3 1 1 0 32 104 5 0 14 66 189 In 2016/17 financial period, a total of 1370 subdivision related applications were received, out of 1024 were approved, 32 were refused, and 189 applications were deferred.
Compared to the 2015/16 period, the number of applications received has increased from 902 to 1370 applications.

Figure 5 shows the distribution of land surveyed by area (ha) according to the survey plan approvals.
Area (Ha) of Land Surveyed in each Division In 2016/17 Eastern % 0 Central 30 % Northern 50 % Western 20 % Type of land Uses Surveyed in Fiji in 2016/17 2 % % 1 0 % % 1 % 4 28 % 46 % 16 % % 2 Residential Commercial Industrial Tourism Special Use ( Others ) Agriculture Figure 5 : Land surveyed by Divisions in 2016/2017 Figure 4 : Approved Survey by use in 2016/2017 As shown in the first pie chart, over half of the land surveyed was in the Northern Division.
This is due to the large mining project in the North.

In addition, the second pie chart shows most of the land surveyed in 2016/17 was for Industrial, Agricultural, and Special Use (Others) Purposes.

2222 23 4.9 SUBDIVISION OF LAND Table 4: Provides summary on types of applications received and considered by the Subdivision section 2016/2017.
Subdivision Summary For 2017 Application Type Decisions Application Received Approved Refused Deferred New Application 888 757 27 Amended Plans Reconsideration Waiver & Relaxation Extension Of Approval Engineering Plans Survey Plans Total 61 14 5 19 50 333 1370 37 1 3 18 211 1024 3 1 1 0 32 104 5 0 14 66 189 In 2016/17 financial period, a total of 1370 subdivision related applications were received, out of 1024 were approved, 32 were refused, and 189 applications were deferred.
Compared to the 2015/16 period, the number of applications received has increased from 902 to 1370 applications.

Figure 5 shows the distribution of land surveyed by area (ha) according to the survey plan approvals.
Area (Ha) of Land Surveyed in each Type of land Uses Surveyed in Fiji in Division In 2016/17 Eastern % 0 Central 30 % Western 20 % 2016/17 2 % % 1 0 % % 1 % 4 28 % 16 % % 2 46 % Residential Commercial Industrial Tourism Special Use ( Others ) Agriculture Figure 5 : Land surveyed by Divisions in 2016/2017 Figure 4 : Approved Survey by use in 2016/2017 As shown in the first pie chart, over half of the land surveyed was in the Northern Division.

This is due to the large mining project in the North.
In addition, the second pie chart shows most of the land surveyed in 2016/17 was for Industrial, Agricultural, and Special Use (Others) Purposes.

Northern 50 % 22 4.10 TOWN PLANNING FEES The revenue received by the Department is derived from fees charged under the Town Planning Act Cap 139 and the Subdivision of Land Act Cap 140.
The total fees received for the 2016/17 period are $491,923.52 in contrast to $205,411.49 in the 2015/16 reporting period, this reflects an increasing number of applications and corresponding investment confidence.

A summary is shown in the Table below.


Table 5 Total Fees received Activity Forward Planning Subdivision of Land Development Control TOTAL Revenue $ 43,499.99 $229,959.47 $186,459.48 $506,834.10 23 23 - ?
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4 n o s k r o W e t a i t i n i o T : / : t e g r a T 9 1 / 8 1 0 2 27 5.
DEPARTMENT OF HOUSING AND SQUATTER SETTLEMENT The Constitution requires the Government to use the available resources to progressively realize the right of every person to accessible and adequate housing.

To do this, Government has adopted a holistic approach to housing that is in large part carried out by the Department of Housing, which is responsible for providing access to adequate and affordable accommodation for all citizens, especially the disadvantaged.
The Department plays an important role in the Government’s efforts to combat poverty through the effective administration of the National Housing Policy, which has a specific emphasis on upgrading and resettlement programs.

The Department is also responsible for administering Government grants to social housing providers such as the Public Rental Board, the Housing Authority, and the Housing Assistance Relief Trust.
The Department’s 2016 program is based on an inclusive and integrated approach between Government and key housing providers.
It will focus on strengthening Fiji’s various social housing programs; assisting the Public Rental Board, the Housing Assistance Relief Trust, and the Housing Authority of Fiji to provide the best possible services to the Fijian people; providing accessible and affordable mortgage financing for both rural and urban communities; enhancing the Ministry’s squatter settlement upgrading programs, and enabling more people to graduate from rental accommodation to homeownership.
Some of the major successes of the Department of Housing in improving Fijian people’s access to suitable housing during this reporting period are highlighted below.

5.1 ESTABLISHING AND IMPLEMENTING THE NATIONAL HOUSING POLICY The Department of Housing continued with the implementation of the National Housing Policy Action Plan [NHPAP].
The Department has completed 18 of the 24 activities, the remaining activities which will continue to be implemented are completing the National Housing Act; merger of the Public Rental Board and Housing Authority; and Institutional strengthening & capacity building for the Squatter Settlement Upgrading Unit.
5.2 ACHIEVEMENTS IN ADMINISTRATION OF GOVERNMENT GRANT FUNDS FOR HOUSING PROGRAMMES The Department of Housing monitors and administers government grants for the following: 5.2.1 CAPITAL PROJECT FOR PUBLIC RENTAL BOARD: The government had provided capital grants in 2014 & 2015 of $2.24m for the 36 units Kalabu housing project at Nasinu and $3.87m for the 48 units Naqere housing project in Savusavu.
Both projects were ongoing throughout 2016-2017; the Government had provided capital grants of $1,299,109 for the 36 units at Simla Housing Project in Lautoka.

The Department of Housing facilitated the release of a $1 million Rental Subsidy to Public Rental Board to assist 810 financially disadvantaged rental customers on a quarterly basis in 2016-2017.
Figure 7: Ongoing Project: Kalabu Housing Project Figure 6: Ongoing Project: Naqere Housing Project 5.2.2 CAPITAL PROJECT FOR HOUSING AUTHORITY The government had provided a Capital Grant of $2.45 million to Housing Authority for Matavolivoli Housing Development Project where 402 families’ will benefit having access to 399 affordable new modern subdivision residential lots of 99 years leases; 1 commercial lot; 1 mini- mart and 1 taxis stand lot.

28 28 29 5.
28 28 29 5.

DEPARTMENT OF HOUSING AND SQUATTER SETTLEMENT The Constitution requires the Government to use the available resources to progressively realize the right of every person to accessible and adequate housing.

To do this, Government has adopted a holistic approach to housing that is in large part carried out by the Department of Housing, which is responsible for providing access to adequate and affordable accommodation for all citizens, especially the disadvantaged.
The Department plays an important role in the Government’s efforts to combat poverty through the effective administration of the National Housing Policy, which has a specific emphasis on upgrading and resettlement programs.

The Department is also responsible for administering Government grants to social housing providers such as the Public Rental Board, the Housing Authority, and the Housing Assistance Relief Trust.
The Department’s 2016 program is based on an inclusive and integrated approach between Government and key housing providers.
It will focus on strengthening Fiji’s various social housing programs; assisting the Public Rental Board, the Housing Assistance Relief Trust, and the Housing Authority of Fiji to provide the best possible services to the Fijian people; providing accessible and affordable mortgage financing for both rural and urban communities; enhancing the Ministry’s squatter settlement upgrading programs, and enabling more people to graduate from rental accommodation to homeownership.
Some of the major successes of the Department of Housing in improving Fijian people’s access to suitable housing during this reporting period are highlighted below.

5.1 ESTABLISHING AND IMPLEMENTING THE NATIONAL HOUSING POLICY The Department of Housing continued with the implementation of the National Housing Policy Action Plan [NHPAP].
The Department has completed 18 of the 24 activities, the remaining activities which will continue to be implemented are completing the National Housing Act; merger of the Public Rental Board and Housing Authority; and Institutional strengthening & capacity building for the Squatter Settlement Upgrading Unit.
5.2 ACHIEVEMENTS IN ADMINISTRATION OF GOVERNMENT GRANT FUNDS FOR HOUSING PROGRAMMES The Department of Housing monitors and administers government grants for the following: 5.2.1 CAPITAL PROJECT FOR PUBLIC RENTAL BOARD: The government had provided capital grants in 2014 & 2015 of $2.24m for the 36 units Kalabu housing project at Nasinu and $3.87m for the 48 units Naqere housing project in Savusavu.
Both projects were ongoing throughout 2016-2017; the Government had provided capital grants of $1,299,109 for the 36 units at Simla Housing Project in Lautoka.

The Department of Housing facilitated the release of a $1 million Rental Subsidy to Public Rental Board to assist 810 financially disadvantaged rental customers on a quarterly basis in 2016-2017.
Figure 7: Ongoing Project: Kalabu Housing Project Figure 6: Ongoing Project: Naqere Housing Project 5.2.2 CAPITAL PROJECT FOR HOUSING AUTHORITY The government had provided a Capital Grant of $2.45 million to Housing Authority for Matavolivoli Housing Development Project where 402 families’ will benefit having access to 399 affordable new modern subdivision residential lots of 99 years leases; 1 commercial lot; 1 mini- mart and 1 taxis stand lot.
28 29 29 Figure 8: Matavolivoli Housing Development Project, Nadi.

5.2.3 GOVERNMENT GRANT TO HOUSING ASSISTANCE RELIEF TRUST The Department of Housing facilitated the release of $287,500 to Housing Assistance Relief Trust for renovation, minor repair of HART homes throughout Fiji which housed a total of 766 destitute families.
Major Housing Project Construction and Renovation included: • • In Quarters 1 and 2 of 2016-17 - Construction of 1 New Building (4 Flats) at Makoi, Nasinu and Major Upgrading of 21 Villages; General Maintenances; In Quarters 3 and 4 of 2016-17 – Operation Costs for HART.

5.2.4 GOVERNMENT GRANT TO PEOPLES COMMUNITY NETWORK The Lagilagi Housing Project continued in 2016-2017; $3.2 million was paid to Peoples Community Network.
The Total Grant of $ 12.6 million was paid to the Peoples Community Network to construct 77 Housing Units in Phase 1 and 76 Housing Units in Phase 2 at the Lagilagi Housing Project.

Figure 9: Lagilagi Housing Development Project, Suva.

5.2.5 FIRST HOME BUYERS GRANT The Government allocated $10 million Housing Assistance for First Home Buyers and as of 31 July, 2017 and $3,610,000 was utilized under the First Time Home Buyers Grant.
A total of 436 applicants received grants, of which 150 applicants received a $5,000 grant, and 286 applicants received a $10,000 grant.
30 30 500 400 300 200 100 0 2016/2017 1 st Home Buyers Grant $4,000,000.00 $3,000,000.00 $2,000,000.00 $1,000,000.00 $- $5,000 Grant $10,000 Grant Total Number of Applicants (LHS) Funding (RHS) Figure 10: Graph showing 1st home buyers in 2016/2017 $10,000 grant $5,000 grant 150 32 5.2.6 FIRE VICTIMS ASSISTANCE GRANT Fire Victims Assistance Grant- the Government allocated $500,000 for the Fire Victims Assistance Grant, where 36 recipients’ benefitted, and the total grant of $180,000 was paid.
5.3 ACHIEVEMENTS IN MANAGEMENT OF UPGRADING PROJECTS 5.3.1 SQUATTER SETTLEMENT The Department of Housing was allocated $2 million in 2016-2017 to facilitate the completion of the Squatter Upgrading and Resettlement Programme to enhance living conditions with a properly developed physical environment and regularized subdivisions incorporated under the existing local government or statutory authority's jurisdiction.
Work was carried out on five Squatter Settlement Upgrading Projects in 2016-2017 which benefitted 731 families, including: • • Omkar, Narere, 87 Lots – currently at final vetting of the Consultancy Contract and a Revised Scheme Plan is to be submitted by NRW Macallan; Cuvu, Nadroga, 105 Lots – construction underway on roads, sewer line, water reticulation, fire hydrants and communal septic tanks; 31 Figure 8: Matavolivoli Housing Development Project, Nadi.
5.2.3 GOVERNMENT GRANT TO HOUSING ASSISTANCE RELIEF TRUST The Department of Housing facilitated the release of $287,500 to Housing Assistance Relief Trust for renovation, minor repair of HART homes throughout Fiji which housed a total of 766 destitute families.
Major Housing Project Construction and Renovation included: In Quarters 1 and 2 of 2016-17 - Construction of 1 New Building (4 Flats) at Makoi, Nasinu and • • Major Upgrading of 21 Villages; General Maintenances; In Quarters 3 and 4 of 2016-17 – Operation Costs for HART.

5.2.4 GOVERNMENT GRANT TO PEOPLES COMMUNITY NETWORK The Lagilagi Housing Project continued in 2016-2017; $3.2 million was paid to Peoples Community Network.
The Total Grant of $ 12.6 million was paid to the Peoples Community Network to construct 77 Housing Units in Phase 1 and 76 Housing Units in Phase 2 at the Lagilagi Housing Project.

Figure 9: Lagilagi Housing Development Project, Suva.

5.2.5 FIRST HOME BUYERS GRANT The Government allocated $10 million Housing Assistance for First Home Buyers and as of 31 July, 2017 and $3,610,000 was utilized under the First Time Home Buyers Grant.
A total of 436 applicants received grants, of which 150 applicants received a $5,000 grant, and 286 applicants received a $10,000 grant.
30 500 400 300 200 100 0 2016/2017 1 st Home Buyers Grant $4,000,000.00 $3,000,000.00 $2,000,000.00 $1,000,000.00 $- $5,000 Grant $10,000 Grant Total Number of Applicants (LHS) Funding (RHS) Figure 10: Graph showing 1st home buyers in 2016/2017 $10,000 grant $5,000 grant 150 32 5.2.6 FIRE VICTIMS ASSISTANCE GRANT Fire Victims Assistance Grant- the Government allocated $500,000 for the Fire Victims Assistance Grant, where 36 recipients’ benefitted, and the total grant of $180,000 was paid.
5.3 ACHIEVEMENTS IN MANAGEMENT OF UPGRADING PROJECTS 5.3.1 SQUATTER SETTLEMENT The Department of Housing was allocated $2 million in 2016-2017 to facilitate the completion of the Squatter Upgrading and Resettlement Programme to enhance living conditions with a properly developed physical environment and regularized subdivisions incorporated under the existing local government or statutory authority's jurisdiction.
Work was carried out on five Squatter Settlement Upgrading Projects in 2016-2017 which benefitted 731 families, including: • • Omkar, Narere, 87 Lots – currently at final vetting of the Consultancy Contract and a Revised Scheme Plan is to be submitted by NRW Macallan; Cuvu, Nadroga, 105 Lots – construction underway on roads, sewer line, water reticulation, fire hydrants and communal septic tanks; 31 31 • • • Caubati, Nasinu, 307 Lots - construction commenced on gabion baskets for the retention/protection of the river bank which had unstable material caused by deep execution of sewer pipes and manholes risers; Ledrusasa, Nadi, 76 Lots – construction underway for roads, sewer reticulation, water reticulation, storm-water drainage and fire hydrants; and Sasawira, Nakasi, 156 Lots - Engineering plans have been lodged to DTCP, with amendments made to engineering drawings due to the complexity of the site conditions.
2016/2017 Squatter Settlement Upgrading Project Total Beneficiaries: 731 Families Ledrusasa, 76 11 % Omkar, 87, 12 % Cuvu, 105, 14 % Sasawira, 156, 21 % Caubati, 307, 42 % Figure 11: Pie chart showing squatter settlement upgrading project 5.3.2 TOWN-WIDE UPGRADING PROGRAMMES The Department of Housing was allocated $3m in 2016 to facilitate the completion of the Town Wide Informal Settlement Upgrading Programme to enhance living conditions with a properly developed physical environment and regularized subdivisions will be incorporated under the existing local government or statutory authority's jurisdiction.
The four Town-wide Upgrading Programmes carried out in 2016-2017 which benefitted 1126 families were: • Qauia, Lami, 436 Lots - Subdivision Scheme Plan for 436 residential lots submitted to Ministry.

Topographical and Control Plan and Geotechnical Report submitted to Ministry; Nadonumai, Lami, 356 Lots - DTCP currently processing the Subdivision Scheme plan.

Referral comments to LTC, WAF, and FRA NFA&FEA.


Rezoning Application from Residential C to Residential Upgrading Development lodged to Lami Town Council; Wakanisila, Kalabu, 120 Lots - Jone Luveniyali Engineering Consultant finalizing the Subdivision Scheme Plan; and Waidamudamu, Nakasi, 270 Lots - Subdivision Scheme Plan for 270 residential lots submitted to Ministry.

Topographical and Control Plan and Geotechnical Report submitted to the Ministry.
• • • 32 32 2016/2017 Town Wide Informal Settlement Upgrading Project : Total Beneficiaries: 1,126 Families Waidamudamu, 270 , 23% Qauia, 436, 37% Wakanisila, 120, 10 % Nadonumai, 356 , 30% Figure 12: Pie chart showing town-wide informal settlement upgrading project 5.3.3 CITYWIDE INFORMAL SETTLEMENT In 2016-2017, the department administered six City Wide Informal Settlement Upgrading Projects involving incremental upgrading with funding of $100,000 per project site for the construction of roads and construction of drainage upgrading & laying of v drains.
The four approved city-wide informal settlement upgrading project carried out in 2016-2017 which benefitted 400 families were: • Vuci and Nausori Settlement, Nausori – Construction of Drainage Upgrading & laying of v drains; • Baba Settlement, Levuka – Construction of Concrete Driveway Access; • Elevuka Settlement, Ba – Construction of Concrete Driveway Access and Drainage; • Valenicina Settlement, Lami – Construction of Concrete Driveway Access.
33 • • • Caubati, Nasinu, 307 Lots - construction commenced on gabion baskets for the retention/protection of the river bank which had unstable material caused by deep execution of sewer pipes and manholes risers; Ledrusasa, Nadi, 76 Lots – construction underway for roads, sewer reticulation, water reticulation, storm-water drainage and fire hydrants; and Sasawira, Nakasi, 156 Lots - Engineering plans have been lodged to DTCP, with amendments made to engineering drawings due to the complexity of the site conditions.
2016/2017 Squatter Settlement Upgrading Project Total Beneficiaries: 731 Families Ledrusasa, 76 Omkar, 87, 11 % 12 % Cuvu, 105, 14 % Sasawira, 156, 21 % Caubati, 307, 42 % Figure 11: Pie chart showing squatter settlement upgrading project 5.3.2 TOWN-WIDE UPGRADING PROGRAMMES The Department of Housing was allocated $3m in 2016 to facilitate the completion of the Town Wide Informal Settlement Upgrading Programme to enhance living conditions with a properly developed physical environment and regularized subdivisions will be incorporated under the existing local government or statutory authority's jurisdiction.
Qauia, Lami, 436 Lots - Subdivision Scheme Plan for 436 residential lots submitted to Ministry.

Topographical and Control Plan and Geotechnical Report submitted to Ministry; Nadonumai, Lami, 356 Lots - DTCP currently processing the Subdivision Scheme plan.

Referral comments to LTC, WAF, and FRA NFA&FEA.


Rezoning Application from Residential C to Residential Upgrading Development lodged to Lami Town Council; Wakanisila, Kalabu, 120 Lots - Jone Luveniyali Engineering Consultant finalizing the Subdivision Scheme Plan; and Waidamudamu, Nakasi, 270 Lots - Subdivision Scheme Plan for 270 residential lots submitted to Ministry.

Topographical and Control Plan and Geotechnical Report submitted to the Ministry.
were: • • • • 32 2016/2017 Town Wide Informal Settlement Upgrading Project : Total Beneficiaries: 1,126 Families Waidamudamu, 270 , 23% Qauia, 436, 37% Wakanisila, 120, 10 % Nadonumai, 356 , 30% Figure 12: Pie chart showing town-wide informal settlement upgrading project 5.3.3 CITYWIDE INFORMAL SETTLEMENT In 2016-2017, the department administered six City Wide Informal Settlement Upgrading Projects involving incremental upgrading with funding of $100,000 per project site for the construction of roads and construction of drainage upgrading & laying of v drains.
The four approved city-wide informal settlement upgrading project carried out in 2016-2017 which benefitted 400 families were: • Vuci and Nausori Settlement, Nausori – Construction of Drainage Upgrading & laying of v The four Town-wide Upgrading Programmes carried out in 2016-2017 which benefitted 1126 families drains; • Baba Settlement, Levuka – Construction of Concrete Driveway Access; • • Valenicina Settlement, Lami – Construction of Concrete Driveway Access.
Elevuka Settlement, Ba – Construction of Concrete Driveway Access and Drainage; 33 33 City Wide Squatter Upgrade Project : Total Beneficiaries of 400 Families Elevuka 100 Baba 100 Valeicina 100 Vuci & Nausori 100 Figure 13: Pie chart showing citywide squatter settlement upgrade project 5.3.4 SOCIO-ECONOMIC SURVEYS In 2016-2017, the Department of Housing carried out seventeen settlement Socio-Economic surveys.
The socio-economic survey will assist to tabulate and provide an assessment for the number of households to be assisted in individual settlements.

Of the fifteen settlements, fourteen were carried out in Western Division and one was carried out in Central Division.
Settlement Name Korovatu, Ba Jamal Khan Road Race Course Ba Tauvegavega FNU Rd Orisi St A Orisi St B Nabua Muslim League Field 11 Navia Tavakubu Lovu Seaside Part 1 Lovu Seaside Part 2 Korovuto Field 4 Table 7: Socio-Surveys Carried Out Division Number of Houses Population Western Western Western Western Western Western Central Western Western Western Western Western Western Western Tomuka Western TOTAL 496 1687 2480 6503 5.4 GOVERNMENT GRANT TO SUSTAINABLE INCOME GENERATION PROJECT In 2016-2017, the department administered five sustainable income generation projects which aim to contribute to reducing rural-urban migration, improving community well-being, and reducing poverty benefitting 163 families.
The projects include: • • • • • Vunisinu Village, Rewa (39 families; the population of 212) - Established Village Trust Fund and achieved continued community savings balance of $30,000; Naboutini Village, Cakaudrove (40 families; the population of 167) - Established Village Trust Fund and achieved community savings balance of $15,000; Nakama Village, Macuata (34 families; the population of 246) - Established a community workable commercial system; established Village Trust Fund Account and a community savings Insurance Policy of $24,000.00; Nakoro Village, Navosa (47 families; the population of 154) - Established community workable Commercial system.
Project Community Lease on 300 acres of farm; and Vanuakula, Naitasiri - 3 established families established with five acres of farm land; 3 startup families.

35 City Wide Squatter Upgrade Project : Total Beneficiaries of 400 Families Elevuka 100 Baba 100 Valeicina 100 Vuci & Nausori 100 Figure 13: Pie chart showing citywide squatter settlement upgrade project 5.3.4 SOCIO-ECONOMIC SURVEYS In 2016-2017, the Department of Housing carried out seventeen settlement Socio-Economic surveys.
The socio-economic survey will assist to tabulate and provide an assessment for the number of households to be assisted in individual settlements.

Of the fifteen settlements, fourteen were carried out in Western Division and one was carried out in Central Division.
Settlement Name Korovatu, Ba Jamal Khan Road Race Course Ba Tauvegavega FNU Rd Nabua Muslim League Orisi St A Orisi St B Field 11 Navia Tavakubu Lovu Seaside Part 1 Lovu Seaside Part 2 Korovuto Field 4 Table 7: Socio-Surveys Carried Out Division Number of Houses Population Western Western Western Western Western Western Central Western Western Western Western Western Western Western 22 24 17 191 41 71 260 11 25 46 280 58 68 77 110 120 85 575 160 171 577 46 91 146 1235 169 277 261 34 Tomuka Western TOTAL 496 1687 2480 6503 5.4 GOVERNMENT GRANT TO SUSTAINABLE INCOME GENERATION PROJECT In 2016-2017, the department administered five sustainable income generation projects which aim to contribute to reducing rural-urban migration, improving community well-being, and reducing poverty benefitting 163 families.
The projects include: • • • • • Vunisinu Village, Rewa (39 families; the population of 212) - Established Village Trust Fund and achieved continued community savings balance of $30,000; Naboutini Village, Cakaudrove (40 families; the population of 167) - Established Village Trust Fund and achieved community savings balance of $15,000; Nakama Village, Macuata (34 families; the population of 246) - Established a community workable commercial system; established Village Trust Fund Account and a community savings Insurance Policy of $24,000.00; Nakoro Village, Navosa (47 families; the population of 154) - Established community workable Commercial system.
Project Community Lease on 300 acres of farm; and Vanuakula, Naitasiri - 3 established families established with five acres of farm land; 3 startup families.

35 35 6.

DEPARTMENT OF ENVIRONMENT 6.1 FINANCE The Department of Environment administers four legislations - Environment Management Act 2005, Ozone Depleting Substances Act 1998, the Endangered and Protected Species Act 2002, and the Litter Act 2008.
The purpose of these legislation is to ensure that Fiji’s environment is protected and natural resources are managed sustainably.

The legislations are aligned to Fiji’s international obligations and commitments.

The Department of Environment during this financial year achieved the following: • Naboro Landfill Stage 2 Cell 1 Construction was completed.

• 1,950 compost bins were given to the 11 Municipal Councils in support of the Home Composting Program valued at FJ$97,975.
• 2 chemical management training was conducted (as part of the Stockholm Convention).

• A Persistent Pollutant Organic Pollutants (POPs) National Stakeholder Consultation was held to discuss the National Implementation Project.

• Waste management training was conducted.

• CITES Annual report submitted to the CITES Secretariat.

• Repatriation of 148 tabua from the NZ Government.

Tabua was received by Hon.

PM on behalf of the Fijian Government.


• Roundtable discussions were held with environmental NGOs and CSOs regarding national priorities.

• 2 CITES training was conducted (for enforcement officers) for compliance with the Endangered and Protected Species Act.

• 181 CITES permits were processed.

• 12 Small Grants Projects were approved by the SGP National Steering Committee.

• GEF Star Fiji R2R Project worth US$7.39m was approved and implementation commenced.
• GEF R2R International Waters Regional Project was approved for implementation (to be implemented in collaboration with the Secretariat of the Pacific Community (SPC)).

• Hosted the GEF Expanded Constituency Workshop (ECW) for Asia and the Pacific Islands.

• 139 technicians were trained as part of the Good Practices Refrigeration training.

• 103 participants were trained as part of the Hydrocarbon training.
• 187 facility inspections were carried out to ensure compliance with the Ozone-Depleting Substance Act 1998.

• 247 ODS storage permits and 361 licenses to handle controlled substances were issued in accordance with the ODS Act 1998.

• Hydrocarbon training manuals were launched.

• 170 EIA permits were processed.

• Department’s Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) for EIA, Waste Pollution Control, CITES, and ODS was formulated and finalized.
The Department of Environment was allocated the following budget: Table 8: DoE Budget Breakdown TOTAL BUDGET ALLOCATION $9,613,400 Budget Breakdown Awareness Waste Management and Pollution Control Resources Management Environment Impact Assessment Ozone Depleting Substances Project Management Operational Costs $102,000 $5,829,275 $1,192,846 $250,000 $70,000 $50,000 $2,119,279 6.2 OPERATIONS The Department of Environment is subdivided into 6 units, as follows: 6.2.1 WASTE MANAGEMENT AND POLLUTION CONTROL Waste Management and Pollution Control activities are mandated under Part 5 of EMA 2005, Environment Management (Waste Disposal and Recycling) Regulations 2007, Litter Act 2008, and the Customs (Prohibited Imports and Exports) (Amendment)(No.3) Regulations 2012.
In this fiscal year, the Department carried out the following activities: • Implementation of International Conventions (Stockholm Convention and Waigani Convention).

2 trainings were conducted to strengthen Fiji’s capacity to address and handle chemical waste and stakeholder consultation was held to review and update the National Implementation Plan (required under the Stockholm Convention).

• Naboro Landfill Stage 2 Cell 1 Construction was completed.
The Naboro Landfill is the only sanitary landfill in Fiji to promote responsible and environmentally sustainable solid waste disposal.

The Naboro Landfill was commissioned in 2005 to receive wastes from the Greater Suva Area for a life of approximately 70 years.

A construction contract was awarded to HG Leach (Fiji) Pte Ltd. All earthworks, in-situ compaction, and linings were completed.
• • 1,950 compost bins were given to the 11 Municipal Councils in support of the Home Composting Program valued at FJ$97,975.

This initiative was to encourage home composting and the use of organize methods for planting.

SOPs for Waste Disposal and Recycling Permitting was formulated and finalized.

3636 37 6.
DEPARTMENT OF ENVIRONMENT 6.1 FINANCE The Department of Environment was allocated the following budget: Table 8: DoE Budget Breakdown TOTAL BUDGET ALLOCATION $9,613,400 Budget Breakdown Awareness Waste Management and Pollution Control Resources Management Environment Impact Assessment Ozone Depleting Substances Project Management Operational Costs $102,000 $5,829,275 $1,192,846 $250,000 $70,000 $50,000 $2,119,279 • 2 CITES training was conducted (for enforcement officers) for compliance with the 6.2 OPERATIONS The Department of Environment is subdivided into 6 units, as follows: 6.2.1 WASTE MANAGEMENT AND POLLUTION CONTROL Waste Management and Pollution Control activities are mandated under Part 5 of EMA 2005, Environment Management (Waste Disposal and Recycling) Regulations 2007, Litter Act 2008, and the Customs (Prohibited Imports and Exports) (Amendment)(No.3) Regulations 2012.
In this fiscal year, the Department carried out the following activities: • • • • Implementation of International Conventions (Stockholm Convention and Waigani Convention).

2 trainings were conducted to strengthen Fiji’s capacity to address and handle chemical waste and stakeholder consultation was held to review and update the National Implementation Plan (required under the Stockholm Convention).

Naboro Landfill Stage 2 Cell 1 Construction was completed.
The Naboro Landfill is the only sanitary landfill in Fiji to promote responsible and environmentally sustainable solid waste disposal.

The Naboro Landfill was commissioned in 2005 to receive wastes from the Greater Suva Area for a life of approximately 70 years.

A construction contract was awarded to HG Leach (Fiji) Pte Ltd. All earthworks, in-situ compaction, and linings were completed.
1,950 compost bins were given to the 11 Municipal Councils in support of the Home Composting Program valued at FJ$97,975.

This initiative was to encourage home composting and the use of organize methods for planting.

SOPs for Waste Disposal and Recycling Permitting was formulated and finalized.

37 37 The Department of Environment administers four legislations - Environment Management Act 2005, Ozone Depleting Substances Act 1998, the Endangered and Protected Species Act 2002, and the Litter Act 2008.
The purpose of these legislation is to ensure that Fiji’s environment is protected and natural resources are managed sustainably.

The legislations are aligned to Fiji’s international obligations and commitments.

The Department of Environment during this financial year achieved the following: • Naboro Landfill Stage 2 Cell 1 Construction was completed.

• 1,950 compost bins were given to the 11 Municipal Councils in support of the Home Composting Program valued at FJ$97,975.
• 2 chemical management training was conducted (as part of the Stockholm Convention).

• A Persistent Pollutant Organic Pollutants (POPs) National Stakeholder Consultation was held to discuss the National Implementation Project.

• Waste management training was conducted.

• CITES Annual report submitted to the CITES Secretariat.

• Repatriation of 148 tabua from the NZ Government.

Tabua was received by Hon.


PM on • Roundtable discussions were held with environmental NGOs and CSOs regarding national behalf of the Fijian Government.

priorities.

Endangered and Protected Species Act.

• 181 CITES permits were processed.

• 12 Small Grants Projects were approved by the SGP National Steering Committee.

• GEF Star Fiji R2R Project worth US$7.39m was approved and implementation commenced.
• GEF R2R International Waters Regional Project was approved for implementation (to be implemented in collaboration with the Secretariat of the Pacific Community (SPC)).

• Hosted the GEF Expanded Constituency Workshop (ECW) for Asia and the Pacific Islands.

• 139 technicians were trained as part of the Good Practices Refrigeration training.

• 103 participants were trained as part of the Hydrocarbon training.
• 187 facility inspections were carried out to ensure compliance with the Ozone-Depleting Substance Act 1998.

• 247 ODS storage permits and 361 licenses to handle controlled substances were issued in accordance with the ODS Act 1998.

• Hydrocarbon training manuals were launched.

• 170 EIA permits were processed.

• Department’s Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) for EIA, Waste Pollution Control, CITES, and ODS was formulated and finalized.
36 6.2.2 RESOURCE MANAGEMENT The Resource Management responsibilities are mandated under section 13(2) and 13(3) of the EMA 2005.

The Department is also responsible for the enforcement of the Endangered and Protected Species Act (2002).
The EPS Act 2002 is the domestic legislation regulating the international trade, domestic trade, possession, and transportation of species listed under the Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species of Wild Fauna and Flora (CITES) to which Fiji is a party to and species listed under schedule 1 and 2 of the Act.

In this fiscal year the Department carried out the following activities: • • • • • • • • Processed and issued 181 CITES related permits.
Conducted 2 CITES training for border enforcement officers and a capacity building training for 14 Provincial Conservation Officers.

This was jointly done with the Ministry of iTaukei Affairs and the iTaukei Affairs Board.

Roundtable discussions were held with environmental NGOs and CSOs regarding national priorities.

Repatriation of 148 tabua from the NZ Government to the Fiji Government.
The Tabua or sperm whale’s tooth is a Schedule 1 listed species and can be imported or exported for cultural purposes only by Fijians.

148 tabua were confiscated items by the New Zealand Government and these were returned to Fiji.

Commenced the review of the 2013 NBSAP.

CITES Annual report submitted to the CITES Secretariat.

Fiji CITES Management Authority and Scientific Council met twice to discuss the way forward for Fiji’s CITES and EPS listed species.
The Management Authority approved the export quota for the year.

CITIES Permitting SOPs were formulated and finalized.

6.2.3 ENVIRONMENT IMPACT ASSESSMENT The EIA is mandated under Part 4 of the EMA 2005.

EIA is a tool used to determine the environmental, social, and economic impacts on any development project before approvals or decisions are made.

The objective of the EIA is to predict the environmental impacts and potential degradation at the earliest stage possible i.e.
it’s planning and design stages and to identify methods to reduce adverse impacts, shape projects to suit the local environment, and present the predictions and options to the decision makers.

In this fiscal year, the Department: • • • • • Processed 170 EIA applications.

Approved 93 EIAs Declined 2 EIAs Issued 4 Prohibition Notices to companies for non-compliance.

Developed EIA standard Operating Procedures (SOPs).

The SOPs are to guide Officers in processing EIA applications.
3838 6.2.2 RESOURCE MANAGEMENT The Resource Management responsibilities are mandated under section 13(2) and 13(3) of the EMA 2005.

The Department is also responsible for the enforcement of the Endangered and Protected Species Act (2002).
The EPS Act 2002 is the domestic legislation regulating the international trade, domestic trade, possession, and transportation of species listed under the Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species of Wild Fauna and Flora (CITES) to which Fiji is a party to and species listed under schedule 1 and 2 of the Act.

In this fiscal year the Department carried out the following activities: Processed and issued 181 CITES related permits.
Conducted 2 CITES training for border enforcement officers and a capacity building training for 14 Provincial Conservation Officers.

This was jointly done with the Ministry of iTaukei Affairs and the iTaukei Affairs Board.

Roundtable discussions were held with environmental NGOs and CSOs regarding national priorities.

Repatriation of 148 tabua from the NZ Government to the Fiji Government.
The Tabua or sperm whale’s tooth is a Schedule 1 listed species and can be imported or exported for cultural purposes only by Fijians.

148 tabua were confiscated items by the New Zealand Government and these were returned to Fiji.

Commenced the review of the 2013 NBSAP.

CITES Annual report submitted to the CITES Secretariat.

Fiji CITES Management Authority and Scientific Council met twice to discuss the way forward for Fiji’s CITES and EPS listed species.
The Management Authority approved the export quota for the year.

• CITIES Permitting SOPs were formulated and finalized.

6.2.3 ENVIRONMENT IMPACT ASSESSMENT The EIA is mandated under Part 4 of the EMA 2005.

EIA is a tool used to determine the environmental, social, and economic impacts on any development project before approvals or decisions are made.

The objective of the EIA is to predict the environmental impacts and potential degradation at the earliest stage possible i.e.
it’s planning and design stages and to identify methods to reduce adverse impacts, shape projects to suit the local environment, and present the predictions and options to the decision makers.

In this fiscal year, the Department: Processed 170 EIA applications.

Approved 93 EIAs Declined 2 EIAs Issued 4 Prohibition Notices to companies for non-compliance.

Developed EIA standard Operating Procedures (SOPs).

The SOPs are to guide Officers in processing EIA applications.
• • • • • • • • • • • • 170 Approved Processed Applications 93 2 Declined 6.2.4 OZONE DEPLETING SUBSTANCE The Department is responsible for the enforcement of the ODS Act 1998 and its subsequent Regulations of 2010.

The Department endeavors to ensure compliance by companies that utilize ozone-depleting substances.

The Department issues import and export permits as part of its licensing and permitting systems under the ODS Act 1998.
The following activities were carried out: • • • • 139 technicians were trained as part of the Good Practices Refrigeration training.

103 participants were trained through the Hydrocarbon training.

These training were conducted to assist the transition of the industry from high global warming potential to low global warming potential refrigerants i.e.

from HCFC to non-ODS gases.

187 facility inspections were carried out as part of the permitting processes.
The following Permits and Licenses were processed/issued: √ Export-14 √ Import-21 √ New Storage Permit- 16 √ Renewal of Permit – 196 √ New Handling license- 67 √ Renewal of License- 294 • On-going implementation of the HPMP Strategy to ensure the systematic reduction in dependence on HCFC based technologies and products, timely phase-down of HCFC in line with Fiji’s targets as per the Decision XIX/6; and assist the industry through supportive measures for the adoption of ozone and climate-friendly alternatives.
The Strategy will be in effect until 2030.

Commemoration of World Ozone Day on September 16.

• • Hydrocarbon training manuals were launched.

38 39 39 16 67 New Storage Permit New Handling license 196 Renewal of Permit 6.2.5 PROJECT MANAGEMENT The Department is responsible for the overall monitoring and evaluation of projects that are funded by the Global Environment Facility (GEF) including the GEF Small Grants Program (SGP).
In this fiscal year, 12 SGP Projects were approved by the SGP National Steering Committee, while 10 projects commenced implementation.

GEF Star Fiji R2R Project and GEF R2R International Waters Regional Project were approved and implementation commenced.

Fiji also hosted the GEF Expanded Constituency Workshop (ECW) for Asia and the Pacific Islands.

6.3 STAFFING The Department of Environment had a total of 50 staff (includes established, unestablished and Project staff).
7.1.1 STAFFING The following staff resigned: Project Coordinator (ODS) - Vika Rogers Project Assistant (ODS) - Elvin Sharma 40 40 7.

CORPORATE SERVICE DEPARTMENT The Ministry’s Corporate Service Division comprises of the human resource management and administrative services and financial services for the proficient and operative performance of the Ministry’s daily operational functions.

7.1 ADMINISTRATIVE SECTION The Ministry’s standard policies and processes are aligned to the Civil Service Regulations.
These guidelines are developed to ensure the Ministry adheres to the standards processes towards: Recruitment and selection Disciplinary procedures Promotion Performance Assessment Training & Development Job Evaluation Exercise • • • • • • • • • The Unit is also responsible for the administration of the: Registry section Asset management (Annual Board of Survey) Occupational Health and Safety (OHS The Ministry employs a total of 165 staff, 133 were established Staff while 15 were Government Wage Earners, and 17 Project Officers.
During the year there was 1 appointment made.
Department/Units Total Established Project Government Wage Table 9: Staff Profile Local Government 165 Town and Country Planning Housing Environment CSD Earners 1 2 2 4 6 12 48 13 40 20 0 0 0 17 0 Post Processing Unit: continued to identify vacant positions that exist in the Ministry and facilitate requirements to choose suitable candidates to fill those positions in accordance with the new Open Merit Recruitment & Selection Guideline (OMRS) which was introduced across the Civil Service.

41 7.
41 7.

CORPORATE SERVICE DEPARTMENT The Ministry’s Corporate Service Division comprises of the human resource management and administrative services and financial services for the proficient and operative performance of the Ministry’s daily operational functions.

7.1 ADMINISTRATIVE SECTION The Ministry’s standard policies and processes are aligned to the Civil Service Regulations.
These guidelines are developed to ensure the Ministry adheres to the standards processes towards: • • • • • • Recruitment and selection Disciplinary procedures Promotion Performance Assessment Training & Development Job Evaluation Exercise The Unit is also responsible for the administration of the: Registry section Asset management (Annual Board of Survey) Occupational Health and Safety (OHS • • • The Department of Environment had a total of 50 staff (includes established, unestablished and Project 7.1.1 STAFFING The Ministry employs a total of 165 staff, 133 were established Staff while 15 were Government Wage Earners, and 17 Project Officers.
During the year there was 1 appointment made.
Department/Units Total Established Project Table 9: Staff Profile Government Wage Earners Local Government 165 Town and Country Planning Housing Environment CSD 12 48 13 40 20 0 0 0 17 0 1 2 2 4 6 Post Processing Unit: continued to identify vacant positions that exist in the Ministry and facilitate requirements to choose suitable candidates to fill those positions in accordance with the new Open Merit Recruitment & Selection Guideline (OMRS) which was introduced across the Civil Service.
41 41 16 67 New Storage Permit New Handling license 196 Renewal of Permit 6.2.5 PROJECT MANAGEMENT The Department is responsible for the overall monitoring and evaluation of projects that are funded by the Global Environment Facility (GEF) including the GEF Small Grants Program (SGP).

In this fiscal year, 12 SGP Projects were approved by the SGP National Steering Committee, while 10 projects commenced implementation.
GEF Star Fiji R2R Project and GEF R2R International Waters Regional Project were approved and implementation commenced.

Fiji also hosted the GEF Expanded Constituency Workshop (ECW) for Asia and the Pacific Islands.

6.3 STAFFING staff).

The following staff resigned: Project Coordinator (ODS) - Vika Rogers Project Assistant (ODS) - Elvin Sharma 40 c. Closing of Accounts 2.
Compliance and Monitoring d. Meeting financial requirements of the Ministry in support of its Business Operations a. Adhering to financial regulation through the provision of Financial Statement to the Ministry of Finance (salary reconciliation, petty cash, and bank reconciliation, IDC and Drawings) c. Attend to Audit queries.

b.

Adapting to Ministry of Finance instructions through Finance Circulars 7.2.
ACHIEVEMENTS Comparison – Revised Budget versus Year to Date Expenditure This is to provide an overview of the Ministry’s total Revised Budget and its Year to Date Expenditure (YTD) at end of the 2016 - 2017 financial year.

The below table and graph displays the utilization for the Ministry’s total revised budget and YTD budget expenditure as of 2016 – 2017 financial year.
Table 10 Utilization of revised budget and YTD budget expenditure 2016-2017 Ministry/Department Head 2016-2017 Revised Budget (FJD$) 2016-2017 Actual Expenditure (FJD$) 2016-2017 2016-2017 Balance (FJD$) % utilization Local Government & 37 & 38 25,093,133 18,231,575 6,861,558 73% Environment Housing 23 25,372,629 15,543,028 9,829,601 61% 50,465,762 33,774,603 16,691,159 67% The Ministry managed to utilize 67% of its total budgetary funds and 33% of the said funds were not Training Section: Continued to identify Local & Overseas courses/training available in consultation with the Ministry of Civil Service, according to the training needs of the Ministry and Staff to address skills and knowledge gaps at individual and organization level.
In addition, the staff was trained on Open Merit Recruitment & Selection Guideline.

7.1.2 OFFICE ACCOMMODATION Proposal submitted to relocate the Western Division Office at Lautoka to the ground floor of the building for easy access to customers.

North Office had been successfully re-located to the Local Timber Building.

No additional office space was acquired to accommodate our increasing workforce the headquarters in Suva.
However, continuous liaison with CIU Unit, Office Accommodation for alternate office space.

7.1.3 VEHICLES The Ministry administers 16 vehicles; 1.

Corporate: 5 2.

Town Planning: 2 3.

Housing: 2 4.

Environment: 2 5.

Local Government: 1 6.

Northern Division: 2 7.

Western Division: 2 7.1.4.

OTHER ACTIVITIES The Wellness Committee organized a medical check-up for Ministry Staff.

The Ministry continues to participate in various sports activities as part of the Wellness Program.

7.1.5.
7.1.5.

FINANCE DEPARTMENT The role of the Finance Division is to provide financial support services to other departments as per prevailing Financial Regulations and monitor that goods and services are efficiently delivered on time as per the budgetary provision.

utilized.

The Unit’s objectives include: A.


Proper management of budget allocation which is fundamental to ensuring value for money in delivering services to the public as well as having cost-effective internal controls within the purchasing and payments system.

This plays an important role to ensure that wastage of funds, over expenditure, misuse, and corruption does not happen.

B.
B.

Ensure Internal Control measures are in place, maintained, and identified areas for improvements where appropriate and recommendations designed to assist the Ministry to improve the system and compliance with the Finance regulation.

C. Effective use of the Financial Management Information System (FMIS).

The Accounts Section carries out its key responsibilities through the following: 1.

Management of payments (accounting and financial function) through: a.

Payments beneficiaries of 1st homebuyers b.


Payments of the assistance of Fire Victims 42 42 43 Training Section: Continued to identify Local & Overseas courses/training available in consultation with the Ministry of Civil Service, according to the training needs of the Ministry and Staff to address skills and knowledge gaps at individual and organization level.

In addition, the staff was trained on Open Merit Recruitment & Selection Guideline.
7.1.2 OFFICE ACCOMMODATION Proposal submitted to relocate the Western Division Office at Lautoka to the ground floor of the building for easy access to customers.

North Office had been successfully re-located to the Local Timber Building.

No additional office space was acquired to accommodate our increasing workforce the headquarters in Suva.

However, continuous liaison with CIU Unit, Office Accommodation for alternate office space.

7.1.3 VEHICLES The Ministry administers 16 vehicles; 1.
Corporate: 5 2.

Town Planning: 2 3.

Housing: 2 4.

Environment: 2 5.

Local Government: 1 6.

Northern Division: 2 7.

Western Division: 2 7.1.4.

OTHER ACTIVITIES The Wellness Committee organized a medical check-up for Ministry Staff.

The Ministry continues to participate in various sports activities as part of the Wellness Program.

7.1.5.

FINANCE DEPARTMENT per the budgetary provision.

The Unit’s objectives include: A.


Proper management of budget allocation which is fundamental to ensuring value for money in delivering services to the public as well as having cost-effective internal controls within the purchasing and payments system.

This plays an important role to ensure that wastage of funds, over expenditure, misuse, and corruption does not happen.

B.
B.

Ensure Internal Control measures are in place, maintained, and identified areas for improvements where appropriate and recommendations designed to assist the Ministry to improve the system and compliance with the Finance regulation.

C. Effective use of the Financial Management Information System (FMIS).

The Accounts Section carries out its key responsibilities through the following: 1.

Management of payments (accounting and financial function) through: a.

Payments beneficiaries of 1st homebuyers b.


Payments of the assistance of Fire Victims 42 c. Closing of Accounts d. Meeting financial requirements of the Ministry in support of its Business Operations 2.

Compliance and Monitoring a. Adhering to financial regulation through the provision of Financial Statement to the Ministry of Finance (salary reconciliation, petty cash, and bank reconciliation, IDC and Drawings) b.
Adapting to Ministry of Finance instructions through Finance Circulars c. Attend to Audit queries.

7.2.

ACHIEVEMENTS Comparison – Revised Budget versus Year to Date Expenditure This is to provide an overview of the Ministry’s total Revised Budget and its Year to Date Expenditure (YTD) at end of the 2016 - 2017 financial year.

The below table and graph displays the utilization for the Ministry’s total revised budget and YTD budget expenditure as of 2016 – 2017 financial year.
Table 10 Utilization of revised budget and YTD budget expenditure 2016-2017 Ministry/Department Head 2016-2017 Revised Budget (FJD$) 2016-2017 Actual Expenditure (FJD$) 2016-2017 Balance (FJD$) 2016-2017 % utilization Local Government & Environment 37 & 38 25,093,133 18,231,575 6,861,558 73% Housing 23 25,372,629 15,543,028 9,829,601 61% 50,465,762 33,774,603 16,691,159 67% The role of the Finance Division is to provide financial support services to other departments as per prevailing Financial Regulations and monitor that goods and services are efficiently delivered on time as The Ministry managed to utilize 67% of its total budgetary funds and 33% of the said funds were not utilized.
43 43 8.

AUDITOR GENERALS REPORT 44 44 8.

AUDITOR GENERALS REPORT 44 45 46 47 48 49 50 51 52 53 54 55 56 57 58 59 60 61 62 63 64 65 66 67 68 69 70