People of all ages regardless of where they live can now expect better services and support as a result of the merger of Rural Local Authority with the Municipal Councils.

This was highlighted by Minister for Local Government, Housing and Transport Parveen Bala today while officiating at the ceremony.

Bala says that the merger was in line with the National Development Plan by promoting equal opportunities for all Fijians.

Bala says that this was an opportunity for municipal councils to bring about uniformity in planning and service delivery and he has also urged the Councils to take initiative to improve their fiscal standing and meet challenges from within the council as well.

Bala adds the government has injected an additional $1.5m as solid waste management subsidy adding that government has also allocated $300,000 for the management and operation of satellite markets in towns that include Navua, Taveuni, Korovou, Seaqaqa, Vunisea and Nabouwalu.