The Ministry of Youth and Sports is lobbying for an increased budget for sports since it plays an important role in nation building.

This was the view of the Minister for Youth and Sports Jese Saukuru as the nation awaits Friday’s National Budget announcement

Speaking to SUNsports, he said there are huge plans set by his ministry for the next financial year especially in the development of sports throughout the country.

However, Saukuru was not able to reveal the amount they are looking at but reiterated it does need an increased budget for sports.

“Of course, I just need an increase in budget allocation to do with sports. That is ground upgrades and new grounds (constructed) especially in rural areas,” Saukuru said.

“Sports have been one that’s been a pathway for many of our young talented sports people to showcase their talents internationally. This enables them to make their living out of sports, so that’s a big thing now.”

Saukuru said another major importance about sport is that it’s also contributing to our country’s economy in a big way.

This, he says, is in terms of remittances and sports tourism.

“So sports, is no longer to be treated lightly,” Saukuru said.

He urged all stakeholders to take their sporting responsibility seriously as the nation now depends on it (sports) to boost our economy, provide employment, improve infrastructure and promote healthy living.

Review

Meanwhile, the Cabinet approved a review of the Fiji National Sports Commission (FNSC).

According to Government, the review will be carried out by an independent consultant recruited via a competitive process, and the outcome will be brought back to Cabinet for its consideration.

The FNSC was established by the Fiji National Sports Commission Act 2013 (Act) to enrich the lives and health of Fiji’s citizens by promoting and facilitating physical activity and sports at all levels.

The review of the operations of the FNSC after 12 years of its establishment will ascertain the FNSC’s effectiveness.

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