WAF backs compensation for water victims

The Water Authority of Fiji (WAF) has stated that people impacted by contaminated water supplies should be eligible for compensation. The authority is advocating for increased accountability to ensure that those responsible for water safety failures are held responsible.

These remarks were made during submissions presented to the Parliamentary Standing Committee concerning the Public Health Amendment Bill. WAF Chief Executive Seru Soderberg emphasized that accountability needs strengthening when water management failures affect communities.

"In terms of compensation to the victims for issues that may arise, we are not against it. We are in agreement that there has to be some form of compensation for the miscarriage of duties to those who are responsible for the catchments and water supply systems," Soderberg said.

He added that when responsibilities for water safety and catchment protection are not met, consequences must follow. WAF believes that clearer accountability measures will enhance public trust in water management and protect affected communities. The comments come as Parliament reviews amendments designed to bolster public health and environmental safeguards.

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In terms of compensation to the victims for issues that may arise, we are not against it. We are in agreement that there has to be some form of compensation for the miscarriage of duties to those who are responsible for the catchments and water supply systems.