The Labasa Hospital operating theatre roof leaks during heavy downpours, according to Assistant Health Minister Penioni Ravunawa.
He said the wet season exacerbates the problem.
“We will address the problem,” he said.
He said the heavy rainfall often worsens existing problems in older buildings.
“Fiji’s wet season runs from November to April.”
The hospital medical superintendent, Dr Jaoji Vulibeci, said several issues had emerged at the operating theatre, with roof leaks becoming evident during the last heavy downpour.
“The operating theatre now has a lot of issues coming up,” he said.
Dr Vulibeci hopes this can be fixed temporarily before any major renovation work is carried out.
“I understand there were roof problems during the last heavy rain.”
He said the operating theatre was supposed to be renovated over the past two years, but the work did not proceed due to financial constraints.
“Due to financial reasons, we exhausted our minor works allocation. As you know, most of the structures are old, and they need constant renovation.”
He said temporary repairs were being considered to keep the operating theatre functional while authorities look at funding for long-term renovation works.
