THE proposed Fiji-Australia Veitacini Treaty is set to strengthen infrastructure at the Queen Elizabeth Barracks while creating greater support for veterans, including improved access to healthcare and dedicated services.
Minister for Defence and Veteran Affairs Pio Tikoduadua told the Standing Committee on Foreign Affairs and Defence on Thursday that infrastructure development was an important component of the treaty’s 10-year plan.
He said the Republic of Fiji Military Forces (RFMF) had recently taken ownership of a fully equipped gym at Queen Elizabeth Barracks, aimed at improving the health and wellbeing of service personnel.
Mr Tikoduadua said a $2.7million armoury project at the barracks was 72 per cent complete.
He said a further $2.2m renovation of the RFMF Commander’s office was 38 per cent complete and expected to be finished by November this year.
On veterans, he said Fiji had requested support under the treaty to improve healthcare access and explore dedicated funding for veterans’ programmes and services.
