The Fiji Council of Social Services (FCOSS) has raised substantial concerns over the government’s intention to shift back to a January–December fiscal year, fearing that this change could critically undermine disaster relief efforts and vital infrastructure projects. Sepesa Rasili, FCOSS President, noted that while the proposed change might appear simple, it poses significant risks to the welfare of communities that depend on prompt government support during crises.
Rasili, who also serves on the National Disaster Risk Financing Policy Steering Committee, emphasized the potential dangers of transitioning fiscal cycles that could disrupt the cyclone season. He stressed the importance of ensuring that communities impacted by cyclones in December do not face delays in accessing emergency funds that will only be available once the new budget cycle begins.
The FCOSS president highlighted that the holiday season typically sees a slowdown in government operations, heightening concerns about the government’s capacity to handle emergencies during this time. “Switching the budget cycle to January places additional pressure on a government already experiencing a decrease in momentum to navigate the complex transition of a new financial year,” Rasili stated. He insisted that communities cannot afford delays when disasters strike and prompt action is critical.
Moreover, Rasili warned that the proposed fiscal change could disrupt essential infrastructure projects, such as the construction of sea walls and evacuation centers. He cautioned that if funding is only available during the cyclone season, construction might occur under adverse conditions, risking the integrity and durability of critical infrastructure that should withstand future storms.
Since 2021, FCOSS has been advocating for a people-centered approach to Public Finance Management, emphasizing that the national budget’s impact on communities extends far beyond mere financial figures. “What we need is a financial calendar that corresponds with the natural rhythms of our islands,” Rasili concluded, urging for a fiscal system that adequately reflects the needs of the Fijian people and strengthens their preparedness for disasters.
This advocacy highlights an urgent need for timely and effective disaster management strategies, pointing towards the significance of fiscal planning that takes into account the realities faced by the most vulnerable communities. The hope remains that the government will heed these concerns and consider a more adaptable fiscal framework that promotes resilience in the face of natural disasters.