Four NZ companies are enjoying a big slice of the FJ$420 million being spent to maintain, repair, and upgrade Fiji’s roads and bridges.
Higgins Group Ltd – one of the ‘big four’ companies brought in by the Fijian government to do this job, and develop local skills – last week opened a new deport and office in Nadi, to go with depots it has already established in Rakiraki, Tavua, Ba, Lautoka and Sigatoka.
The other Kiwi companies involved in Fiji are Fulton Hogan and Highway Stabilisers in the central division and Blacktop in the north. All are New Zealand companies with strong credible reputations, reports the Fiji Sun.
“Years of neglect have led to the deteriorated state of Fiji’s roads – and that cannot be fixed overnight,” says prime minister Commodore Voreqe Bainimarama, in opening Higgins’ offices last week.
“Yes it’s taking time to attend to every job. The neglect, the inefficiency and corruption of previous years cannot be fixed overnight.
“But the work that was so badly needed has begun in earnest and we’re all starting to see the results – and we expect to see even greater results in the next few months.”
The prime minister says his Government is committed to this project and that is evident from the $420 million being spent to maintain, repair, upgrade and build roads and bridges.
“But it’s not just about the size of the price tag. It’s about being smart with the way we spend that money, making sure that the Fijian taxpayer is getting the absolute best return on their investment.
“In the past, there were too many Government departments and statutory bodies that simply weren’t delivering good enough results. They lacked the necessary skills, technology and know-how to get the job done right.
“Add to that the corruption, mismanagement and lack of transparency that was all too common and it’s no wonder some of our key infrastructure and industries are in such a sorry state.”
He says working with the private sector companies like Higgins Group brought in the specialised training, skills and knowledge that increased efficiency and improves results.
“It allows us to right-size government, leading to a more streamlined and cost effective civil service. And it creates sustained employment.”
Board chairman of Higgins Group, Sir Patrick Higgins, says they were aware of the work ahead and pledged that they would work to make Fiji’s roads much better.
“We are in no doubt as to the importance of the task ahead after discussions with local councils and the public. I can pledge to you now that we will deliver the improvements that everyone is waiting for.”
