The Interim Cabinet has endorsed the establishment of a National Fire Strategy and roadmap for fire safety.

In his submission, Interim Minister for Local Government and Public Utilities Jone Navakamocea said a steering committee was formed to prepare a roadmap after three major fires earlier this year and the roadmap clearly identifies the issues that has impacted on NFA's performance and ability to contain, control and mitigate the effects of fire.

It also identifies strategies and actions to address the stumbling blocks such as late calls to fire, poor building construction and non - compliance of national building codes, lack of water, pressure and fire hydrants, community attitudes and education.

He added that adequate service delivery funding is crucial and for that developing more appropriate fees structures, increasing current activities that can generate fees and developing a robust "user pays" philosophy is important.

The Interim Minister also said the roadmap recommends the NFA become a "National" fire service, serving all of Fiji and not just towns and cities.