Most vulnerable will be assisted on a case by case basis - Ditoka

Minister for National Disaster Management, Sakiasi Ditoka says the most vulnerable at the evacuation centres and those affected by Severe Tropical Cyclone Mal will be assisted on a case by case basis if the need arises.

While speaking in an interview with fijivillage News, Ditoka says according to the National Disaster Management Act, the government is required to provide rations to affected families after 48 hours, however they are already on the ground assessing the situation and ensuring the people get the required help.

The advice to families moving to the evacuation centres includes them moving with their basic needs until the weather system passes their area.

Groups are also gathering contributions for about 50 families from Nanuku Settlement in Vatuwaqa who were sheltering at Marcellin Primary School.

They say they need items like flour, sugar, biscuits, noodles, onions, rice, canned food and diapers.

Ditoka also says those accommodating schools at the moment need to return to their homes by this evening as school starts tomorrow.

He says they will assist families further if they still need help.

Meanwhile Ditoka says the Ministry worked well with all the agencies, and based on learning experiences from the past and institutional knowledge, they achieved a lot. He says we are fortunate that TC Mal remained in open seas but they were prepared for the worst.

Ditoka says all arms of the government, the NGOs and the private sector and everyone in the community worked well.

He has also thanked the people for quickly responding to the public advisories.