A clear distinction should be made between the services provided by civil servants deployed as first responders during natural disasters to prevent significant health issues.
Fiji Public Service Association (FPSA) West branch president, Clement Dari stated that staff were often compelled to serve beyond their capacity during natural disasters.
This was revealed during the Fiji Public Service Association climate change capacity building and FPSA strategic plan consultant workshop in Suva on Friday.
While sharing his experiences as a first responder during the COVID-19 pandemic at the Golden Age Home in Lautoka, Mr Dari noted that staff, including caregivers, had to stay there full-time to prevent residents from being relocated because of staff infections.
He said this was despite the existence of staff quarters within the home.
“It needs to be in black and white because we cannot take life for granted,” he said.
“Once your life is gone, it cannot be replaced, it’s gone forever.”
He said the comprising of an average civil servant’s health would result in families being left fatherless and motherless, likely lead to an increase in social problems within communities.
“We need to have a clear demarcation saying where we need to stop and where we need other agencies to take responsibility.”
