THE food deployment program during the lockdown in the Suva-Nausori corridor over the weekend was poorly planned, says Fiji Council of Social Services (FCSS) executive director Vani Catanasiga.
She said it was evident because they had received feedback from community members in the area throughout the weekend.
She said it was an almost kneejerk reaction that left the poor particularly vulnerable and more so when there were spates of flooding across these areas.
She said the manner in which the program was rolled out showed poor leadership and required a bit more co-ordination beyond just the health authorities.
“They must recognise that while they are the experts at stopping the virus, there are agencies and structures that can also be activated to ensure that the humanitarian aspect of this situation runs parallel,” Ms Catanasiga said.
“This way all of our communities — whether they are rich or poor continue to have access to food and water during this critical time.”
In response, Health Ministry permanent secretary Dr James Fong said they would improve food deployment assistance in future lockdowns.
