The recently appointed government has formed several cabinet subcommittees to evaluate ongoing projects, signaling its focus on critical sectors.
Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for Infrastructure Taniela Fusimalohi emphasized during the Prime Minister’s press conference yesterday the importance of informed decision-making, saying, “These government must ensure its decision is correct and so these subcommittees are helping them with it.”
Fusimalohi revealed seven subcommittees which comprises of ministers empowered to consult with relevant ministries and stakeholders for comprehensive assessments.
The Infrastructure and Construction subcommittee has been tasked with reviewing key projects related to roads, wharfs, and ports. This includes assessing ongoing developments and ensuring they align with national priorities.
The Lulutai Airlines subcommittee is focused on finding a sustainable path forward for the airline. Its objective is to maintain local flight operations without unnecessary government risk, allowing the civil aviation industry to function independently while the government remains a regulator.
The Tonga Power Limited subcommittee is reviewing renewable energy projects and the national energy grid to lower electricity tariffs. A key concern is the delay in integrating energy from three wind turbines in Hahake into the grid, with no official explanation provided.
The Banking Sector subcommittee is responsible for addressing governance and operational issues to ensure compliance with legal standards. It aims to improve oversight and accountability in the financial sector.
The Petitions to Government subcommittee manages petitions submitted to parliament, ensuring they receive appropriate government responses. This aims to improve public engagement and transparency in governance.
The Lands subcommittee is working to identify and resolve land-related issues. It seeks to address long-standing disputes and inefficiencies in land administration.
The Public Service and Public Sector subcommittee has introduced a 12-point public service charter to enhance service delivery. A major focus is ensuring ministries follow turnaround time policies to improve efficiency and responsiveness.
These initiatives reflect the administration’s commitment to thorough oversight and strategic planning in key areas of national development.
