THE Government is concerned that businesses may pass on costs to consumers following the proposed electricity tariff increase, says Minister responsible for Energy, Ro Filipe Tuisawau.
He said the issue was being addressed through consultations with stakeholders.
“Well, the Fiji Commerce and Employees Federation has expressed their views regarding the increases, and that is something that we’ve read about, and it is something that we need to take into consideration,” Ro Filipe said.
“Because whatever costs are absorbed by the businesses, commercial sector, or employers, will be passed to the consumers, will be passed to the public.
“So as a Government, that is our concern, which is why I am saying that for me, as a minister responsible for energy and the Minister of Finance, we are closely consulting each other and we are looking at FCCC’s and EFL’s assistance before we look at other options.
“Consultations are still ongoing, and we note the concerns that have been expressed.”
He said he was of the view that consultations should have taken place prior to making any decision.
“My initial concern was already expressed in terms of the consultation process.
“The employers federation and various private customers have expressed their concern regarding consultations, because it seems the consultation was done in the last round, rather than the current one.”
Ro Filipe further expressed concern regarding comments by the Fiji Competition and Consumer Commission (FCCC) chief executive officer that Cabinet was not of one view on the matter.
“That is a breach of protocol because they were given access to the Cabinet meeting, and Cabinet meeting deliberations are confidential, and how she made that conclusion is itself a breach of protocol.
“That is something that needs to be dealt with.”
