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Fiji’s Tourism ministry has been told to make sure procedures and policies are strictly followed in its administration of funds for eco-tourism projects.
The warning comes after glitches highlighted in the latest Public Accounts Committee report, strongly suggesting funds drawn from the Tourism Ministry coffers be used for genuine cases.
The Auditor General highlighted in the report projects listed under eco-tourism “as having anomalies that were of concern and should have been addressed by the Ministry”.
The seven eco-tourism projects mentioned in the audit report are (1) Korovou Marine Protected area in Taveuni (2) Naqalia Point Resort and (3) Rogo Bay Resort in the Yasawas (4) Wainicago Lodge in Kadavu (5) Naisaumua eco-cultural Day Tour and (6) Western Water Sports operated by the Octopus Resort in Taveuni (7) the Adventures Resort operating in Taveuni.
The committee was also pleased to note that “all projects falling under Eco-tourism were progressing well”.
“It is of the utmost importance that regular monitoring be carried out and inspection reports submitted,” the report cited.
