Our views on the government’s infrastructure package from a Pacific perspective:-

• Minimum wage should increase to $13.50 per hour as our pacific people mostly are the lower paid ones in the community

• More spend in housing, education, apprenticeship and health

• Fijians of Indian descent ought to be recognized as Pacific Islanders too and be treated equally and equitably with other Pacific Islanders.

• Provide funding and assistance to NZ Assn of Certified Public Accountants (NZACPA) www.nzaai.org.nz to assist in the professional development and training of pacific and other accountants and business advisors

• Rent to own state housing so as to escape the poverty trap

ENDS