An investigation has been initiated concerning ten Health Ministry ambulances that have remained unused for several months at the Ro Qomate facility in Labasa. Assistant Health Minister Penioni Ravunawa announced that a comprehensive audit will be conducted to ascertain the reasons behind the lack of deployment for these vehicles.
Mr. Ravunawa stated that following the completion of the investigation, decisions will be made regarding the ambulances, which could include returning them to service, ensuring they are properly stored, or disposing of them in accordance with government protocols. The ambulances in question were previously utilized at various hospitals, including those in Savusavu, Labasa, and Nabouwalu.
The audit aims to confirm whether the ambulances were appropriately assessed by the relevant board of survey, if they had been officially written off, or if they remained in the system due to administrative errors. Mr. Ravunawa emphasized that all government vehicles must undergo the correct procedures before being retired or removed from service.
He highlighted the necessity for the divisional office and the ambulance coordinator in the Northern region to take appropriate actions, whether that involves removing, auctioning, or correctly storing the vehicles. In response to inquiries about potential waste incurred from the ambulances being idle, Mr. Ravunawa indicated that the audit’s findings would clarify this matter.
While over ten ambulances were donated by the Japan International Cooperation Agency last year, there remains a pressing need for reliable emergency vehicles in various areas. Mr. Ravunawa noted that some ambulances dispatched to Viti Levu are unsuitable for use in the North due to challenging road conditions, thereby underscoring the importance of proper vehicle deployment to meet local emergency service needs.
This investigation reflects a commitment to improving health services in the region and ensuring that resources are utilized efficiently to support emergency medical responses.