STRATEGIC DEVELOPMENT PLAN DRAFT (2015-2017)

MINISTRY OF INFRASTRUCTURE & TRANSPORT

TABLE  OF CONTENT

MINISTERS FOREWORD................................................................................................................ 3

1. EXECUTIVE SUMMARY......................................................................................................... 4
2. INTRODUCTION...................................................................................................................... 5
   1. VISION.................................................................................................................................. 6
   2. MISSION............................................................................................................................... 6
   3. VALUES................................................................................................................................ 6
   4. KEY PILLARS TO ACHIEVE REQUIRED VISION.................................................................. 7
   5. STRATEGIC OBJECTIVES....................................................................................................... 8
   6. OUR CORE BUSINESS............................................................................................................. 8
   7. KEY STRATEGIES TO ADDRESS KEY PILLARS AND BILL OF RIGHTS (2013 CONSTITUTION)              10
   8. KEY POLICIES TO ACHIEVE KEY GOALS AND OUTCOMES........................................... 11
   9. MONITORING AND REVIEW PLAN..................................................................................... 14
   10. STRATEGIC TARGETS AND IMPLEMENTATION SCHEDULES........................................ 15
   11. KEY ACRONYMS................................................................................................................... 25

MINISTER’S  FOREWORD

I have great pleasure in endorsing the three year revolving Strategic Development Plan of the Ministry of Infrastructure & Transport and its implementation for the period 2015-2017.

The key achievements from the period 2013-2014 were progressive and encouraging however, I understand that this momentum will rise to another level in the 2015-2017 and beyond. I must commend the initiative for the continued quarterly assessments and monitoring of the progress in the implementation of this strategic document.

This Strategic Development Plan reemphasizes the framework and roadmap that has been chartered over the last twelve months for a pathway leading to sustainable development in the delivery of service to the public by the staff of the Ministry for the next three years.

The Plan is a holistic document capturing the vision of the eight Departments that makes up the Ministry and the five, Government Commercial Statutory Authorities (GCSA) that comes under my ministerial portfolio as the Minister for Infrastructure and Transport namely; Land Transport Authority (LTA), Water Authority of Fiji (WAF), Fiji Roads Authority (FRA) and Maritime Safety Authority of Fiji (MSAF) with Fiji Electricity Authority (FEA) as a fully fledge GCSA. The various programs and in particular Capital projects to be undertaken for this twelve (12) months including those forecasted in the annual Public Sector Investment Programme (PSIP) has been reflected in this Plan.

In a nutshell, the Strategic Development Plan generally outlines the required policies, strategies and key pillars that are needed to achieve the required outputs that are detailed in this Plan. It also covers the thematic focus of the Ministry programs in supporting the Government overall vision for a Better and Prosperous Fiji as outlined in the Government Manifesto.

This Plan derives its thematic focus from 2013 Constitution, the key pillars of the Peoples Charter for Change, Peace and Progress, the guiding principles of the Roadmap for Democracy Sustainable Socio-Economic Development (RDSSED) Framework of the Government.

I wish all staff the success in implementing this Plan in the next twelve months and beyond.

PRAVEEN K. BALA

Minister for Infrastructure & Transport

1. EXECUTIVE SUMMARY

The layout of this document defines a preliminary understanding of the objectives of the Strategic Development Plan 2015-2017 (SDP) which incorporates the strategic focus of Government in the Infrastructure and Transport Sector as enshrined in the 2013 Constitution, the key features under the pillars of the Peoples Charter for Change, Peace and Progress, the guiding principles of the Roadmap for Democracy Sustainable Socio-Economic Development (RDSSED) Framework of the Government.

From these key features, the Ministry of Infrastructure and Transport (MoIT) is able to determine its four main key priorities – Economic Growth, Sustainable Development, Increased Investment and Fiji as the Maritime Hub. These priorities lay the platform in the delivery of the Ministry’s core business functions and more so, the achievement of its Vision and Mission.

The level of delivery executed by the various Departments and Divisions within the Ministry - Architectural Services, Works, Transport, Meteorological and Hydrological Services, Energy, Water Supply and Sanitation, Maritime Services and General Administration will play a major role to the attainment of the key priorities.

The key priorities are further defined into eight strategies that align with the core business functions identified with the respective Departments under the MoIT. Strategic performance targets are established for different Departments/Divisions to ensure timely execution of tasks together with prudent monitoring. During the tenure of this SDP, the MoIT will work in correlation with other ministries within Government to maintain a coordinated effort towards the achievement of the corporate objective - Higher economic growth and prosperity for the people of Fiji.

1. INTRODUCTION

This Strategic Development Plan 2015 – 2017 (SDP) emphasize the framework and direction to chart the way forward for the Ministry of Infrastructure and Transport (MoIT) in the next three years in the delivery of its services to the public and in the implementation of its programs and projects.

The plan generally outlines the required policies, strategies and key pillars that are needed to ensure that the targets set out in the SDP are achieved during its tenure. These targets relate to the projects and programs that are required to be delivered and implemented by the Ministry as part of the Ministerial mandate and portfolio of MoIT as highlighted in the Government Manifesto.

In 2014, the Infrastructure and Transport sectors were estimated to have contributed to 4.0 percent and 6.4 percent respectively towards Fiji’s Gross Domestic Product (GDP). These sectors are both major contributors to the broad domestic economy of the government of Fiji.

The economical contribution from Infrastructure and Transport sectors would include Government Departments, Government Commercial Statutory Authorities (GCSA) and private sector inputs. However, more specifically the economic growth contribution would also include value addition through policy formulation and through the following sectors in terms of:

i)        Infrastructure          -           Sustainable Infrastructure development

ii)       Transport                -           Dynamic Transport system

iii)     Energy                    -           Providing clean and affordable energy sources

iv)     Meteorological       -           Providing technically advanced metrological and

hydrological product and services

v)        Water                       -           Providing sustainable quality water and environmentally

focus waste water service through service excellent

The Ministry through the respective sectors is further challenged to contribute to the revised growth rate of 4.3 percent projected for 2015 from the earlier growth forecast of 4.0 per cent as announced in the 2015 National Budget. The timely implementation of the SDP will immensely contribute to achieving the projected 2015 annual growth.

1. VISION

Achieving higher economic growth and prosperity for Fiji through sound advices and service delivery in quality sustainable infrastructures, safe dynamic transport systems, safe and clean water, affordable energy sources, advanced meteorological and hydrological products.

1. MISSION

Complete service delivery that is accessible to All.

1. VALUES

• · Honesty – we commit to an honest day’s work.
• · Integrity – we commit to being impartial in all our  service.
• · Leadership – we commit to exercising strong and sound   leadership.
  • · Teamwork – we value the contribution of all staff irrespective of their appointment and status
  • · Innovation – we encourage new ideas and a can do  attitude
  • · Professionalism – we commit to excellence in all that we  do

1. KEY PILLARS TO ACHIEVE REQUIRED VISION

To achieve the Ministry’s Vision and Mission, this revolving Strategic Development Plan, is founded and supported by the four key pillars:

6.1.  Economic Growth

As the key Government Agency for the infrastructure sector, the Ministry is entrusted to contribute towards economic growth for the country, through the effective implementation of its commitment goals in the following sectors- energy, water and sanitation, architectural design, civil and mechanical engineering works, road and bridges infrastructure, meteorology and hydrology and land and maritime transport.

6.2.  Sustainable Development

As the lead Government agency for energy, climate services, water resources and sanitation development, the Ministry is the key contributor to sustainable development. The critical areas that the Ministry will focus on, is improving synergies within Government Ministries, the private sector and non-governmental organizations that play a pivotal role in sustainable development, particularly in the energy sector to reduce reliance on fossil fuels and ultimately reducing Green House Gas (GHG) emissions and the empowerment of blue economy and green growth concepts. The meteorology sector as part of its research and development, continue to pursue new advanced technologies for timely tracking and dissemination of information in critical times.

6.3.  Increased Investment

As the Government agency in the Infrastructure and the Transport Sector, the Ministry provides an enabling environment to attract overseas and local entrepreneurs to invest in small to large size enterprises. The national investment into utilities like water, electricity and accessible roads and bridges infrastructure are the core areas which are attractive to potential investors. Similarly, the land and maritime transport sector provide the key linkages for many small to medium size enterprises to thrive in the business environment. The spinoffs are increased employment and equitable distribution of the national income.

6.4.  Fiji a Maritime Hub

Fiji’s strategic location in the Pacific Region demands improvements in the maritime infrastructure sector. As the line Ministry for maritime transportation, through the planned development of a Maritime Transport Policy, a first for the country, it is envisaged that we will play a lead role in developing synergies with the relevant statutory authorities, Government agencies and stakeholders for the fulfillment of this overarching national policy document. The development of our ports of entry, particularly Suva as a transshipment hub will auger well for shipping agents and seafarers alike, contributing positively to the national and local economy.

1. STRATEGIC OBJECTIVES

During the tenure of this Strategic Development Plan, the key strategic objectives of the Ministry of Infrastructure & Transport shall focus on five key dimensions namely:

(i)     Boosting national delivery through effective leadership;

(ii)     Improving work effectiveness through accountable performance and continuous professional development ;

(iii)    Focusing on program priorities and timely delivery;

(iv)    Promoting sustainable partnership through collaborative networking; and

(v)     Linking strategic targets with decisive actions.

1. OUR CORE BUSINESS

The core business activities of the Ministry of Infrastructure & Transport revolve around policy formulation, planning, design, monitoring, evaluation and construction of key Government infrastructures and their effective maintenance. These core business activities are shared and undertaken by the following key departments in the Ministry mentioned below.

8.1.  POLICY ADVICES AND GENERAL ADMINISTRATION

Key focus and priority here is the provision of timely and quality policy advice to the Minister for the effective execution of his Ministerial portfolio as mandated by the Prime Minister and Cabinet. Part of this portfolio leadership also includes effective management of finance and human resources.

8.2.  ARCHITECTURAL   SERVICES

Focus and priority in this department is focusing on the timely provision of professional advice through consulting services, conceptual designing, quality architectural and structural drawings, project planning and management, costing and scheduling through quantity surveying, programming and monitoring from project inception to completion. Administration of tenders and contracts for capital works is also an integral domain of this department.

8.3.  WORKS

The key priorities shall involve the mandate of government regarding the reforms of the public sectors to increase efficiency and effectiveness of its service delivery. This involves a total overhaul of strategic key areas that will revitalize its performance and contribute to a vibrant and profitable entity focusing on economic growth. Key focus areas include maintenance of public offices, Government buildings and new constructions.  In  addition,  the  restructure  of  its  various  Trade  and    Manufacturing

Accounts (TMA) policies is geared to increase its market base initiative and achieve profitable returns.

8.4.  TRANSPORT

The key priority is to provide an enabling framework for an efficient and affordable transportation systems using the two modes of transport under our Ministerial portfolio; land and maritime. The Key focus is to provide appropriate policy advices and regulatory framework required to create an investor friendly environment and satisfy the travelling needs of the community. This is to facilitate, promote and support trade and tourism, through transportation of goods and people.

8.5.  METEOROLOGICAL AND HYDROLOGICAL SERVICES

The key priority is to provide early weather; hydrology and climate services forecasts and warnings on natural disasters and other extreme events like cyclones, storm surges and flooding are provided for the benefit of the general public. Special emphasis here is on disaster risk reduction and mitigation measures as a result of climate change, global warming and sea level rise.

8.6.  ENERGY

The key focus is to provide clean, affordable, reliable and sustainable energy supply and services to meet public demand especially in the rural areas through the Rural Electrification Program. The drive towards achieving 100% access to electricity underpins governments plan to reduce the overall fuel import bill as well as the increase use of renewable energy sources to protect the environment ,promote Green Growth of the Economy and to mitigate against the negative impact of climate change. In the process, the framework of “Blue Carbon Initiative” in terms of managing indigenous forests/mangroves for energy needs and conservation shall also be addressed.

8.7.  WATER SUPPLY AND SANITATION

To provide effective regulatory framework and monitoring for safe, clean water supply and services. In terms of sanitation, the key focus here is to have a standardized system that is clean, affordable and environmentally friendly to both rural communities and urban centers.

8.8.  MARITIME SERVICES

To promote and facilitate national need for a safe and affordable sea transportation and economic growth in the Maritime sector. In providing market accessibility to the maritime communities through shipping services, contributes to growing national economy. This is through the provision of Government shipping and marine aid to navigational services hence meeting Fiji’s obligations to the maritime community and complying with international maritime conventions.

1. KEY STRATEGIES TO ADDRESS KEY PILLARS AND BILL OF RIGHTS (2013 CONSTITUTION)

During the tenure of the Plan the key strategies of the Ministry to address the key pillars and certain sections of the bill of rights shall focus on the eight key deliverables outlined below:

(i)         Strengthen policy advices and regulatory functions of the Ministry and better management of resources;

(ii)       Improve customer focus, services delivery and better turnaround time for architectural services for Government Capital projects;

(iii)      Increase the quantity and value of construction work for Government infrastructures;

(iv)      Increase the volume of trade and passenger traffic for both land and maritime transport by 5 percent annually;

(v)       Minimize the negative impact of natural disasters and climate change to societies and communities through better quality weather forecasting, climate and hydrological services;

(vi)      Increase the total number of households connected to the national electricity grid and those assisted via renewable energy sources under the Rural Electrification Program by 5 percent annually,

(vii)    Accelerate the implementation of regulatory and monitoring policies to increase access to safe clean drinking water and improve sanitation system by 5 percent annually ; and

(viii)   Increase the number of service delivery to improve sea transportation and commercial activities in the maritime areas by 5 percent annually.

1. KEY POLICIES TO ACHIEVE KEY GOALS AND OUTCOMES

During the tenure of this revolving Strategic Development Plan, the key policies needed to achieve key Goals and Outcomes are summarized below:

10.1.               Department of Works

i)            Review the business operation and processes in each Trade and Manufacturing (TMA) Entity to ensure it is competitive in the market (75%)1

ii)          Promulgate and implement the new Practicing Engineers Registration Bill (75%)

iii)         Review the National Building Code to be realigned to the Ministry of Infrastructure & Transport

iv)         Review and implement a new Architects Registration Act (60%)

v)          Develop a National Building Act (30%)

vi)         Restructure of the Works portfolio to bring about improved operational effectiveness (50%)

vii)       Transfer of all maintenance work of public buildings to the department (0%)

viii)      To establish LTA accredited vehicle examination facility (20%)

10.2.               Department of Meteorological/Hydrological Services

i)            Finalizing of the new Meteorological and Hydrological Services Act for the Department (50%)

ii)          Develop a Meteorological and Hydrological Services Data and Products Policy (50%)

iii)         Transfer the mandate for tsunami monitoring and warning services in Fiji, as well as the Seismology Division, currently under the Mineral Resources Department to the Department of Meteorology (5%)

iv)         Develop a National Framework for Climate Services (5%)

v)          Continue work on Coastal Inundation Forecasting Demonstration Project (25%)

vi)         Establishment of the WMO Regional Training Centre in collaboration with USP (30%)

10.3.               Department of Water and Sanitation

i)           To formulate the new water and sewerage legislation framework (25 %)

ii)         Coordinate the production and the transfer of the National Water Resources Management and Sanitation Policy to be the over-arching umbrella framework for water resources assessment, development, construction, extraction and management. (95 %)

iii)        Produce a National Water & Wastewater Master Plan to cover both the rural and urban areas (0%)2

iv)        Produce a National Water Resources Management Act, to be the over-arching umbrella legislation for water management in Fiji (0%)

v)         Coordinate and facilitate the production of a liquid waste policy (50%)

vi)        Development of national Water and Sanitation Database (70%)

vii)      Water Authority of Fiji promulgation 2007 - In liaison with the Ministry of Public Enterprise to oversee the transfer of the Water Regulatory functions to the Department of Water and Sewerage from the Water Authority of Fiji

10.4.               Maritime Transport Services

i)           Implement new Maritime Transport Policy for Fiji (70%)

ii)         Develop a 5 year revolving strategic plan for the Maritime Transport Sector (40%).

iii)        Review of Coasting Trade Regulations – Infringement Process (30%).

iv)        Finalize and Implement a National Oil Spill Plan (70%).

v)         In liaison with the Ministry of Defense finalize, realign and implement a Government Search and Rescue Policy Framework 50%)

vi)        In liaison with the Ministry of Public Enterprise complete the reform of the Maritime Safety Authority of Fiji (MSAF) (60%)

vii)      In liaison with MSAF and the Fiji National University ensure the development of the School of Maritime Studies curriculum is aligned to the STCW 2010 Manila Amendments (70%).

viii)     Review of Freight Charges and Passengers Fares after six months from 01 July 2015 (20%).

ix)        Implementation    of    eight    (8)   International    Maritime    Organization    (IMO) Conventions.

x)         Review of Sea Route Licensing (SRL) six months after implementation from 31 July 2015

xi)        Implementation of Sustainable Sea Transport

10.5.               Land Transport Services

i)            A new Land Transport Policy for Fiji (70%).

ii)          Develop a 5 year revolving strategic plan for the Land Transport Sector (40%).

iii)         Complete the review of the Land Transport Act (80%).

iv)         Introduce a policy for Quality Assurance Maintenance Systems (QAMS) for all modes of public transport (80%).

v)          In liaison with the Fiji Sugar Corporation Limited conduct a feasibility study for a Railway System for public and cargo transportation in the sugar cane belt areas (40%).3

vi)         Complete the review of the Min Bus Fare Structure (40%).

vii)       Complete the review of the Speed Limit Survey (70%).

viii)      Review of Fiji Roads Authority (FRA) Act (50%).

ix)         Consultation on Intelligent Transport Systems Electronic Road Pricing (ERP) (20%).

x)          Concept Paper on Rail Systems for Fiji – Monorail (10%).

10.6.               Department of Energy

i)           Produce a revised five year National Energy Policy (NEP) (95%).

ii)         Implementation of five years National Energy Policy (NEP) (5%).

iii)        Promulgate a new Energy Act to be the over-arching legislation for the energy sector in Fiji (0%).

iv)        Promotion of clean energy through renewable energy sources (ongoing).

v)         Promulgate a new Renewable Energy Act (10%).

vi)        Review of Rural Electrification Policy 1993 with a view to standardizing customer contributions (30%)

vii)      Expand the rural electrification program through renewable energy sources and introduce solar-diesel hybrid systems for good performing diesel generator systems in rural villages (30%)

viii)        Introduce a framework for standardization of Power Purchase Agreement (PPA) for the country

ix)        Review the IPP tariffs to differentiate various power sources in the category of firm and non-firm power.

x)         Establish guidelines for roof-top grid connect PV projects and establish a favorable “Feed in Tariff” and/or Net Metering mechanism for the national electricity grid (60%).

xi)        Review and implement a revised Petroleum Import Standards to reduce overall fuel imports for the country (90%)

xii)      Produce a National Electrification Master Plan (5%).

xiii)     In liaison with the Ministry of Public Enterprise oversee the transfer of the Energy Regulatory functions to the Department of Energy from the Fiji Electricity Authority (10%).

xiv)     Expand the scope of the Minimum Energy Performance Standards and Labeling (MEPSL) Program to include other high energy consuming electrical appliances (10%).

xv)      Inclusion of addendums to the Fiji National Building Code (FNBC) to incorporate Energy Efficiency and Renewable Energy (50%).

xvi)     Produce a national Biofuels Framework/policy/guide (70%)

1. MONITORING AND REVIEW PLAN

Change and review of the SDP will be required as part of the process to ensure that the Plan continued to achieve its purpose. It provides an opportunity to more fully assess the appropriateness of required legislations, policies and programs designed in the Plan to achieve its purpose. A full review will be done yearly to assess significant progressive work undertaken.

1. STRATEGIC TARGETS AND IMPLEMENTATION SCHEDULES

1. KEY ACRONYMS