Fees and charges raised as key concern by Biosecurity Authority

Fees and charges are among the concerns raised by the Biosecurity Authority during the Standing Committee on Foreign Affairs and Defence meeting, where they presented their 2011-2013 Annual Report.

While speaking to fijivillage News, Acting CEO Surend Pratap says regulation is critical to the Authority, especially when considering the changing costs of doing business over time.

Pratap says while Fiji’s inflation rate is around 2 to 3 percent annually, over the past 10 to 12 years, this has amounted to a cumulative increase of approximately 30 percent.

He says despite this the fees and charges have remained unchanged.

Pratap adds this is an opportunity for them to review these fees and charges to ensure they continue providing the necessary services to their stakeholders.

The Acting CEO says the authority is committed to strengthening border control and security to prevent the entry of pests and diseases into the country.

He adds upgrading technologies, detection tools, and diagnostic capabilities is essential to achieving these goals.

Standing Committee Chair, Lenora Qereqeretabua says the submission from the Biosecurity Authority of Fiji is highly informative.

Qereqeretabua says the Annual Report provides updates on the Authority’s current challenges, including staff retention issues, as well as their concerns regarding fees and charges.

She says these matters will be presented by the Ministry of Public Enterprises to the Cabinet.

Lenora adds this process allows them to understand the challenges faced by the Biosecurity.