The rehabilitation of schools damaged by
Cyclone AMI will be the direct responsibility of the Ministry of Education,
says Prime Minister Laisenia Qarase.
Speaking during a Media Conference today
on Government's Relief and Rehabilitation Assistance Programme for Victims
of Tropical Cyclone Ami, Mr. Qarase said the total cost of damage covering
116 schools in Macuata, Cakaudrove and Lau is estimated at $3.3 million,
including $1.5 million in classrooms, and $943,900 in staff quarters.
Mr. Qarase said the Ministry of Education will enlist the assistance of the RFMF Engineers Unit in the reconstruction of damaged buildings in the Northern Division.
"The Ministry of Regional Development's housing unit will assist in the repair and rebuilding of schools in the Eastern Division."
Mr. Qarase said the Ministry estimates that it will require about $4 million for its schools rehabilitation programme and it has identified funds from within its 2003 capital budget allocations to cover its requirements.