PRIME Minister Rick Houenipwela has been applauded for his leadership in preparing the way forward and beyond.
Premier of Isabel province, James Habu applauded the dedication and commitment in leading the country when he paid a courtesy visit to the Prime Minister Wednesday morning.
“I wish to congratulate you [Prime Minister] for your hard work and commitment during your short time since elected into office. I also wish to congratulate you for restoring confidence to the people of this nation,” he said.
Habu during the meeting also raised issues relating to the 2019 Budget, telecommunication, infrastructure and health and resources sectors with the Prime Minister.
The Premier encouraged the Government to make sure the 2019 National Budget is reflective of the development and inspirations of his province.
Habu also raised the issue of the shortage of health personnel’s in his province.
He said the province has been experiencing this problem for years which has led to the closure of some provincial clinics.
He said improving the current state of the provincial health sector can help to reduce the number of referral cases and cut expenses for the responsible authorities.
Habu also raised concerns regarding the implementation of the Provincial Government Strengthening Program (PGSP) that is coordinated by the Ministry of Provincial Government and Institutional Strengthening (MPGIS).
Prime Minister Hou in response has acknowledged the issues raised by Premier Habu stating that most issues raised have been taken note of by the Government.
Hou also acknowledged that telecommunications and infrastructure development remains a challenge for successive Governments.
“With the ongoing progress of the undersea cable project, there is hope that it will improve telecommunications in the country in the near future,” he said.
Moreover, he said infrastructure remains a vital sector and that the government is working on assessments to address the infrastructure needs of each province.
Hou also acknowledged the need for the government to address the resources sector within the provinces.
He said that sectors like the minerals sector needs strong regulations and compliance measures to be in place.
“It is important to have strong regulations and compliance measures in place to attract good reputable investors,” the Prime Minister said.
The Prime Minister thanked Premier Habu for raising issues of national interest with him urging him to continue to work closely with the Government.
–OPMC PRESS
