MINISTER for Information Lynda Tabuya has defended the cost of her Fiji Day celebrations trip to South Australia, clarifying that her travel was largely funded by the Fijian community and not taxpayers.
“The only cost to Government was the ticket upgrade and standard travel per diem, which Ministers, Assistant Ministers, permanent secretaries and ambassadors are entitled to,” Ms Tabuya said.
Her statement was in response to queries on why her Fiji Day trip cost taxpayers when organisers said it was fully funded.
Ms Tabuya said she was officially invited and her travel was approved by the Prime Minister.
She said Fiji Day celebrations was just as important for those in rural areas and this year’s event was a first for regional South Australia.
Critics, she said conveniently left out the fact that PALM/NEC workers in South Australia were one of the highest remitting PALM regions, sending home millions of dollars in remittances every year.
“Their contribution to Fiji’s economy is hundreds of times more than the cost of this trip.
“National PALM/NEC remittances for Fiji are now estimated at $200–$250million annually.
“I make no apology for going to meet our workers, hearing their concerns, and advocating for them.
“Fijians abroad deserve more than a virtual ‘thank you’.”
She said her trip focused on connecting with Fijian workers, celebrating Fiji Day, and strengthening ties with Australian counterparts.
“To our Fijian community in South Australia: Vinaka vakalevu for funding my trip and hosting me with genuine love, respect and unity.”
