MINISTER for Agriculture, Rural and Maritime Development and National Disaster Management Inia Seruiratu says the 2016-2017 National Budget is proof the Government is committed to the recovery and rehabilitation efforts of crucial sectors of the economy.

Mr Seruiratu said in his budget address that following Severe TC Winston the post disaster needs assessments showed that 62 per cent of the population were affected with 48.8 per cent (263,000) making up this figure.

He said the outlook of achieving the two-year disaster recovery framework looked positive.

Mr Seruiratu said $7 million was set aside as a contingency budget for disaster risk with a further $2m allocated under the Disaster Risk and Mitigation Program in the 2016 and 2017 budget.

Other notable allocations to his ministry included:

* a further $20m added to the $75.3m Help for Homes Initiative;

* $142.6m for the reconstruction and upgrading of existing schools; and

* provision of school furniture and equipment, educational resources and other supporting services.

“In addition madam Speaker, with my other ministry, the Ministry of Agriculture, a total of $542m was estimated as damage and loss under the post disaster needs assessment.

“Recovery and rehabilitation works are budgeted under various programs to ensure speedy recovery and restoration of livelihoods.”