AUSTRALIA will provide part of the funds required for operationalising the Truth and Reconciliation Commission (TRC).
This was confirmed by the Australian High Commission through an official response yesterday.
“Australia understands that the Truth and Reconciliation Commission is a key priority for the Government of Fiji to promote national unity and reconciliation,” the High Commission stated.
“We are working with Fiji to finalise the arrangements for Australia to make a funding contribution to the Truth and Reconciliation Committee.”
The TRC Act 2024 stipulates that during the commission’s three-month preparatory meeting, it must undertake tasks necessary to ensure it can work effectively.
This includes procuring office space, should it be required, budget preparation and securing funds for its operations.
It is unclear at this stage how much funding the TRC will receive, however, its secretariat was allocated $200,000 in the 2024/2025 National Budget.
Meanwhile, TRC chairperson Dr Marcus Brand paid a courtesy call to Attorney-General Graham Leung this week.
Mr Leung’s said in a statement he welcomed Dr Brand’s appointment and acknowledged the commission’s important role in fostering national unity and healing.
He reaffirmed the Government’s support for the commission’s work and wished Dr Brand and his team well.
The Attorney-General expressed keen interest in the commission’s work and highlighted the importance of encouraging open discussions and transparency.
