Speaking after the budget address, Interim Fijian Affairs and Multi Ethnic Affairs minister, Ratu Epeli Ganilau said he is pleased with what his ministry has been allocated.
He said the allocation for Fijian Affairs and Multi Ethnic Scholarship has been increased and more students will be assisted next year.
Arya Pratinidhi Sabha of Fiji, President, Kamlesh Arya is relieved that education has remained the priority for the interim government which is the reason why the education budget remains the largest.
Arya said although the budget for education has been reduced, some priority areas in the education sector have been looked into.
Interim Public Utilities Minister, Jone Navakamocea said major water projects in the Suva/Nausori corridor and other parts of the country will continue however there is a reduction in the water supply budget from 87.8 million to $56 million.
Fiji Bus Operators Association has welcomed the Interim Governments stand to reduce fiscal duty on the buying of new buses from 27% to 5% with also a reduction in import excise rate on new buses from 15% to 5%.
President, Pyaara Singh said this reduction will help bus operators in improving bus services in Fiji.
The Consumer Council of Fiji CEO Premila Kumar said they are pleased that the increasing prices of some of the basic food items have been decreased.
The Fiji Military Force is happy with an increase in its budget for 2008. Chief of Staff Colonel Samuela Saumatua said that with the increase, senior military officers will now meet to decide on the RFMF's plans for 2008.
