$3m jetty to benefit Rabi Islanders

[Stacey King]

FIJI TIMES ONLINE Salaseini Vosamana Wednesday, July 25, 2012

THE construction of the Rabi Jetty on Vanua Levu is expected to be completed by next week.

Fiji Roads Authority spokesman Mike Rudge said yesterday work on the jetty would stimulate economic activity for the Banaban people.

"The contractors of the $3 million project recently experienced delays in the overseas procurement of material and that's why work is still in progress," Mr Rudge said in a statement. They were waiting for material like rails, bollards and fenders to complete the project.

"To further boost economic activities in the Northern Division, the completion of the jetty will enable ferries and conventional boats to visit the island, assisting the people of Rabi with transportation of products to the mainland and other outer islands."

Mr Rudge said the project was also in line with government's commitment to boost infrastructure development by $63m, covering external and government-funded projects.

The Rabi Island Council also believes the project will greatly benefit the islanders.