THE Government is determined to lift the standard of living in rural communities, says Assistant Minister for Agriculture Viam Pillay.

Mr Pillay said this while addressing the villagers of Cawaru and the surrounding district of Udu in Vanua Levu last week.

He reiterated the Government’s stance on lifting the standard of living for rural communities as part of Government’s overall priorities.

“This trip is to get first-hand information and issues that concern you the most so that it could be addressed by relevant government departments and ministries,” Mr Pillay said

“Government is trying its best to provide services to the outer most rural areas like to those who live in the middle of Viti Levu or the coastal villages like yours.”

He held informal discussions with the villagers who raised a number of issues concerning the district of Udu.

Udu district representative Aisake Tusauma highlighted the challenges faced by villagers on a daily basis and also praised Government for its unwavering support and assistance.

Mr Pillay said the issues brought forward by their district representative would be looked into and taken into consideration by the respective departments of Government.